Two Florida deputies were reportedly shot and killed Thursday afternoon in an ambush-style attack at a Trenton restaurant. Reports indicated that the suspected gunman is also dead.
WFTS reported that the two Gilchrist County Deputy Sheriffs were killed around 3 p.m. at Ace China Restaurant in downtown Trenton. The suspect reportedly walked up to the business and opened fire, fatally wounding the two officers.
The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office said responding officers found the apparent gunman dead outside of the building; the deputies were located inside.
GILCHRIST COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE has suffered a terrible tragedy. Please avoid the area of SR 26 from the red light to the area of subway. No suspects are at large. Further updates will be posted later.
— Gilchrist Co Sheriff (@GCSOFlorida) April 19, 2018
I was just briefed by @GCSOFlorida Sheriff Bobby Schultz on today’s shooting. I know @FDLEPIO is on scene and I’ve offered any state support they may need.
— Rick Scott (@FLGovScott) April 19, 2018
It’s not immediately clear why deputies were responding to the Trenton business. Gilchrist police have alerted people to avoid the area of SR-26 as they conduct their investigation.
Bay News 9 reported that the Florida Sheriff’s Association called Thursday’s fatal shooting an “ambush.” Additional information is not available at this time.
This is a developing story. Be sure to check back with CrimeOnline for updates as they become available.
[Featured Image: WCJB video screengrab]
