Tragedy struck in Walton County as Deputy William "Will" May of the Walton County Sheriff's Office lost his life while volunteering on an overtime shift, a move that turned fatal when he responded to a disturbance call at a Dollar General in Mossy Head. As per WFTV, Governor Ron DeSantis reflected on the sorrow felt by many, stating, "Casey DeSantis and I are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Walton County Sheriff’s Deputy Will May, who was killed yesterday in the line of duty. He died a hero protecting others and stopping a dangerous assailant," a position echoed across the state as the governor offered his prayers for May's wife and children.
According to Tallahassee, the encounter between Deputy May and the unnamed suspect was brief and deadly. The suspect drew a firearm after exiting the store and fired multiple shots, with at least 18 rounds exchanged in the incident, resulting in both May and the suspect's death. Despite efforts by medical staff, who fought for four hours to save his life, May succumbed to his injuries at North Okaloosa Medical Center, with Sheriff Michael Adkinson confirming, "Will fought the entire time. From returning fire on scene to fighting for his own life."
Information from WFTV noted that the 38-year-old deputy had a ballistic vest, which stopped several rounds. However, a fatal shot went underneath the vest, which resulted in his untimely death.
