Earlier this morning, Apopka turned into a crime scene when a man in his 50s was found shot and rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition, according to deputies. Investigators cordoned off part of East 13th Street as they searched the neighborhood for the shooter. The Orange County Sheriff's Office says the gunman remains at large and has been described as a "known suspect," and the investigation is still active.
What deputies say
According to WFTV, deputies responded around 9:30 a.m. to the 200 block of East 13th Street in Apopka and located the victim. Several deputies were on scene and blocked 13th Street from South Highland to Old Apopka Road while investigators worked the area. Channel 9 crews were at the scene as law enforcement continued their response.
Investigation underway
As reported by WFTV, the Orange County Sheriff's Office described the shooter as a "known suspect" and said the victim was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Deputies told reporters the probe remains active and searches in the area are ongoing.
How this fits into a worrying local trend
The shooting is the latest in a string of violent incidents around Apopka, following a March attack near Apopka City Hall that wounded four men, as reported by FOX 35. A 2025 incident that left three men wounded at East 13th Street and Clarcona Road was previously covered in a report on three men wounded at Apopka intersection, underscoring ongoing concerns about neighborhood gun violence.
What police want from the public
Officials asked anyone with information to contact the Orange County Sheriff's Office, according to WESH. Deputies said tips and witness statements could help move the investigation forward.
