A routine battery call in Deltona turned violent last night when a Volusia County Sheriff's deputy was shot twice while investigating a report at 2684 Candler Drive. The deputy was struck in the leg and shoulder and taken to a hospital, where Sheriff Mike Chitwood said the wounded officer was conscious and alert. Nearby streets were shut down, and emergency crews rerouted traffic as investigators worked the scene.
According to ClickOrlando, Chitwood posted on social media that "He is conscious, alert and in good enough spirits to crack jokes with the medical staff treating his injuries." The sheriff also wrote, "Thankful our deputy is alive today and hopefully well on his way to a fast recovery," while officials urged drivers to steer clear of the area around Howland and Providence as response teams remained on scene.
History of deputy-involved shootings in Volusia County
Volusia County has seen several deputy-involved shootings in recent years, underscoring the danger deputies face even on calls that start out sounding routine. For example, WFTV reported in 2020 that deputies fatally shot a suspect in Deltona after a slow-speed chase ended and the man reportedly pointed a rifle at officers. Those incidents prompted state reviews and highlighted how quickly ordinary calls can become life-threatening for first responders.
What officials say and next steps
The Volusia County Sheriff's Office has not released additional details and said the incident is under investigation, as reported by ClickOrlando. Officials have not named any suspects or said whether charges will be filed, and investigators remained on scene into the evening. This is a developing story and will be updated when authorities provide more information or hold a public briefing.
