OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) has released new details following a deputy-involved shooting that occurred early Monday, June 23.
According to MCSO, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on SE 161st Street in Summerfield and arrested Rheanna Harden, 22, on multiple charges including driving with a suspended license, providing false identification to law enforcement, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
While being transported to the Marion County Jail, deputies say Harden—who had concealed a small-caliber handgun in the crotch area of her pants—fired at the deputy, striking him. The deputy returned fire, injuring Harden.
Both the deputy and Harden were transported to the hospital for treatment and have since been released.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is leading the investigation into the shooting, which remains ongoing.
Originally published at 7:17 a.m.: The Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is investigating a deputy-involved shooting that occurred early Monday morning in Ocala.
According to MCSO, deputies responded around 2:30 a.m. on June 23 to a report of shots fired in the 2900 block of South Pine Avenue. Preliminary findings indicate that after a traffic stop had concluded, a female suspect shot a deputy. The deputy returned fire.
The deputy sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect was transported to a nearby hospital; her condition has not been released.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has been notified and will oversee the investigation, as is standard in officer-involved shootings.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.