In a tense encounter outside Tampa, Florida deputies were forced to make a split-second decision when confronted by an armed suspect who pointed a gun at them, leading to the suspect’s death.
On Saturday night, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a distressing situation at a home on the 10000 block of Courtney Palm Boulevard. A family member, fearing their loved one had committed suicide, had alerted authorities after hearing gunfire from the bathroom.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered 67-year-old Anthony Dadante in the bathtub, concealed behind a shower curtain. According to reports from NBC6 affiliate WFLA, Dadante was found holding a firearm, with visible injuries on his chest.
The incident escalated quickly when deputies repeatedly instructed Dadante to drop his weapon. Despite their clear commands, Dadante raised his firearm towards the officers, prompting them to open fire in self-defense. The suspect was subsequently pronounced dead from his injuries.
Sheriff Chad Chronister commented on the rapid development of the situation, noting that what began as a potential suicide call turned into a life-threatening confrontation. He stated, “Our deputies had to make a tough decision in an instant, and it was the right one.”
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office noted that neither deputy involved had any prior instances of using force. The event is under investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to ensure all actions were justified and followed protocol.
This incident highlights the unpredictable and dangerous situations law enforcement officers can find themselves in, requiring immediate and often life-altering decisions. The investigation will aim to shed light on the exact circumstances that led to this fatal outcome.
Source: Nbcmiami
