A high-risk narcotics raid in Bradenton turned fatal this morning when police shot and killed one person inside a home near MLK Jr. Avenue, according to the department. Officers with the Bradenton Police narcotics unit say they were serving a high-risk search warrant at a residence on a nearby block when they saw movement inside a closed room and believed someone was armed. A SWAT medic moved in to provide medical aid after officers opened fire, but the person hit by gunfire died at the scene. No officers were injured, and investigators quickly sealed off the area.
Bradenton Police later posted a short update on its Facebook page, saying officers were on scene and asking media to meet the department’s public information officer at 420 9th Ave W for a briefing, according to the Bradenton Police Department. The post promised more information as it becomes available.
Police Account Of The Search
Local coverage reports that the narcotics unit was carrying out a coordinated, high-risk search warrant at a home near 420 9th Ave W and eastbound MLK Jr. Avenue when officers staged outside and spotted movement inside the residence. According to FOX 13 News, officers breached the door, found a person in a closed room who did not follow commands, and an officer fired at least three times, hitting that person. Police have not yet released the identity of the person who was killed or the name of the officer who fired.
Investigation And Next Steps
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is on site and is leading the criminal investigation, according to agency and media reports. In officer-involved use-of-force cases, FDLE guidance says agents "will determine the facts of what happened and turn the case over the state attorney’s office" to decide whether criminal charges are warranted, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement notes.
Who Was Inside And Community Impact
Bradenton police told reporters that three people were inside the home when officers entered. One additional person inside was not injured by gunfire but received emergency assistance after the shooting, FOX 13 News reported. Neighbors and media were kept at a distance while investigators documented the scene and collected evidence. Officials say more details will be shared during the planned media briefing.
