Tragic Shootout Claims Life of Florida Deputy Outside Dollar General

A sheriff’s deputy was shot and killed during a confrontation with a suspect outside a Dollar General store in Walton County, Florida, on Wednesday, leaving local authorities in deep mourning.

Deputy Will May, aged 38, was fatally injured while responding to a report of trespassing at the store around 2 p.m. According to Sheriff Michael Adkinson of the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, the incident unfolded quickly, transforming an ordinary call into a tragic event.

During his interaction with the suspect, Deputy May engaged in a brief conversation that lasted around 10 to 15 seconds. Following this dialogue, Deputy May escorted the man outside the store.

It was at that moment that the suspect brandished a firearm and opened fire on Deputy May. Sheriff Adkinson detailed the events at a press briefing, stating, “The suspect drew a firearm and fired multiple rounds, striking Deputy Will May. Deputy May, demonstrating extraordinary bravery, was able to draw his own weapon and return fire in defense of his life.”

The gunfire resulted in the deputy fatally wounding the suspect, allowing him to radio for assistance. However, despite life-saving efforts from fellow deputies who arrived on scene shortly thereafter, Deputy May succumbed to his injuries approximately four hours later at a local hospital.

Describing the deputy’s resolve, Sheriff Adkinson noted, “Will fought the entire time, from returning fire at the scene to his struggle for survival. I am grappling with this loss, as I cannot find any tactical errors in what Deputy May did during the incident.”

Unexpected Violence from an Unlikely Source

According to Sheriff Adkinson, there were no prior indications that the suspect might pose a violent threat. In fact, Deputy May was not initially planning to work that day; he volunteered to help with the case, which ultimately turned fatal and was the last call on his shift.

The shootout occurred in Mossy Head, near DeFuniak Springs, with authorities later confirming that at least 18 rounds were exchanged during the incident. Remarkably, there were no other casualties reported.

Deputy May was equipped with a ballistic vest that successfully thwarted multiple gunfire rounds. Unfortunately, one bullet managed to penetrate beneath the vest, leading to his tragic demise.

A Devoted Officer Remembered

Since joining the department in 2014 as a communications officer and transitioning to deputy status in 2019, Deputy Will May established himself as a dedicated public servant. He is survived by a wife and two teenage children, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and courage.

The deceased suspect has not yet been identified, and Sheriff Adkinson confirmed that the individual had no prior arrests. Authorities found no evidence indicating the man was prone to violence; he was a holder of a concealed weapon permit and had other firearms in his residence, but nothing suggested aggression.

Adkinson remarked, “We thoroughly explored the suspect’s background and found no previous encounters with law enforcement that would indicate any tendency toward violence. The investigation revealed he had not been arrested by our agency before this incident.”

Reflections on a Grieving Community

This tragic incident has left a palpable impact on the Walton County community, as residents grapple with the loss of a dedicated deputy who took a stand to protect the public. Sheriff Adkinson expressed his condolences, stating, “To lose a member of our force is devastating. Our thoughts are with Deputy May’s family during this extraordinarily difficult time.”

Memorial tributes and community support are expected to continue as citizens come together to honor Deputy May’s sacrifice. His service represents a profound commitment to public safety and community welfare, underscoring the risks law enforcement faces in their daily duties.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shootout is ongoing, and authorities remain focused on determining the full details as they unfold. As more information becomes available, the community watches intently, united in memory of a fallen hero.