Deputy Recovering After Being Shot During Investigation in Deltona
Shooting Incident in Deltona
A deputy from Volusia County is on the mend after sustaining two gunshot wounds while responding to a reported battery incident in Deltona on Thursday evening. Sheriff Mike Chitwood reported that the shooting took place at around 2684 Candler Drive as the deputy was answering a service call. During the altercation, the officer was hit once in the leg and once in the shoulder. Chitwood noted that the shoulder injury might have been less severe due to the deputy's body camera, which possibly deflected the bullet before it struck.
Chitwood remarked, “This is the first instance I’ve witnessed where a body camera has taken a hit,” highlighting that the deputies had recently adjusted the positioning of their cameras within the last six months.
Deputy in Good Condition
Deputy Alert And In Good Spirits
Officials confirmed that the deputy remained alert and conscious after the shooting and was promptly taken for medical care. The sheriff characterized the injuries as non-life-threatening, adding that the deputy was in good spirits, even sharing jokes with the medical personnel.
Traffic was redirected around Howland Boulevard and Providence Boulevard as law enforcement secured the area and began initial investigations. Residents were advised to steer clear of the vicinity while evidence was being collected.
Chitwood stated that several individuals have been apprehended in relation to the incident, and authorities are not actively searching for any additional suspects.
Ongoing Investigation
Evidence To Be Released
The sheriff’s office intends to release the 911 call, body camera footage, and an image of the suspected shooter as the investigation continues. The identities of those in custody have not yet been revealed, nor have further details about the circumstances leading to the shooting. Detectives are still conducting interviews and analyzing evidence collected from the scene.
This incident highlights the dangers faced by deputies during routine service calls. Sheriff Chitwood expressed relief that the deputy survived and indicated that more updates would be shared as additional information becomes available.