GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the barricaded suspect was shot and killed by deputies after firing additional rounds at law enforcement. No deputies or civilians were injured during the incident. The standoff, which began during a felony narcotics warrant attempt, has now ended. Authorities say the area remains secure, and West University Avenue is expected to reopen once the scene is cleared.
Originally published at 11:25 a.m.: A standoff involving an armed suspect who fired at Alachua County deputies has prompted an ongoing law enforcement response at an off-campus apartment building near the University of Florida. Authorities say there is no threat to the UF campus, and university operations have resumed, although nearby West University Avenue remains closed.
Incident began during warrant attempt
According to Captain Chris Simms with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, deputies with the agency’s warrants unit were attempting to serve a felony narcotics warrant at approximately 102 NW 9th Terrace early Monday morning when the male suspect, confirmed to be armed, fired one round at officers.
- No deputies or members of the public were injured
- The suspect remains barricaded inside the apartment
- All surrounding residents have been safely evacuated
“This is an all-hands-on-deck response to ensure our community is safe,” said Capt. Simms.
Law enforcement presence remains heavy
The apartment building has been surrounded and secured. The Alachua County SWAT team, hostage negotiators, Gainesville Police Department, and Alachua County Fire Rescue are on scene. Bomb squad robots and drone units are also being deployed to assist.
Authorities have shut down West University Avenue from the 800 to 1100 block as a precaution.
UF responds, no threat to campus
While initial reports mentioned an “active shooter near UF,” officials clarified that the incident is not connected to the university.
- The suspect incident is contained to an off-campus location
- No incident occurred on university grounds
- Normal operations at UF have resumed
- The UF Human Resources building, located near the scene, will remain closed for the rest of the day
UF has allowed law enforcement to use the HR building as a temporary command center.
“We have been in direct communication with their chief of police and communications staff,” Simms said. “There is no threat to the University of Florida.”
Public urged to avoid the area
Negotiations with the suspect are ongoing, and law enforcement believes the situation may continue for some time.
Officials are urging the public to avoid the area around NW 9th Terrace and West University Avenue to allow law enforcement to safely bring the incident to a resolution.
“We want this gentleman to come out unarmed and unharmed,” Simms said. “Please continue to stay clear so our teams can do their job.”
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.