A section of US-41 in North Port was closed down yesterday due to an active shooting investigation, as law enforcement swarmed the area near the Charlotte County line. The roads affected included stretches near Cornelius Blvd. and South Salford Blvd., causing significant disruptions. WFLA reports that local authorities directed residents to avoid the vicinity.
The incident, which occurred early morning yesterday, resulted in two individuals being hospitalized following reports of gunshots—or possible stabbings—at a Wawa convenience store off US-41. In a development highlighted by NBC-2, the specifics on whether the injuries were caused by gunshot or knife wounds remained unclear. Subsequent to the investigation, which had prompted the road closures, US-41 has since been reopened to traffic.
According to a statement obtained by WINK News, eyewitnesses near the Wawa described a scene of chaos with sounds of gunshots ringing through the air around 9 a.m. Law enforcement confirmed the shooting at 11 a.m., and area closures were enacted as a result. The parking lot became an assembly of police tape and activity, while helicopters monitored from above.
Further details emerged from an on-scene witness interviewed by WINK News, who claimed to have seen two men engaging in a gunfire exchange. Both men involved in the incident were airlifted to receive medical treatment for their injuries. North Port Police Department also responded to the incident, working alongside the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office to manage the ongoing investigation and maintain public safety.
