An officer-involved shooting left one Jacksonville Sheriff's deputy hospitalized and another man dead following an armed robbery attempt in Jacksonville. The social media post from the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office identified the wounded officer as L. Mercado, who is currently receiving treatment for a gunshot wound sustained during the confrontation.
Details provided by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office reveal that the incident occurred at Norfolk Boulevard at Soutel Drive when Officer Mercado responded to an armed robbery carried out by an a 20-year-old black man at a nearby business. The situation escalated into a chase, and during an attempt to apprehend the suspect, shots were exchanged, resulting in Mercado's injury and the suspect's subsequent death at the hospital. The State Attorney’s Office has begun their investigation into the tragic unfolding of events.
"Please pray for him as he recovers," pleads the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office's statement regarding Officer Mercado. The department has requested privacy for the officer and his family during this challenging period. The State Attorney’s Office, now thoroughly involved, is expected to conduct a comprehensive probe into the shooting.
Further details on what led to the violent episode will be delivered by Sheriff T.K. Waters and Chief Alan Parker.
