What started as a noisy neighborhood block party in Sanford's Midway community ended in a deadly shooting early Saturday, June 20, 2026, when a Seminole County deputy shot and killed a man, according to authorities. Deputies say the deputy opened fire after an armed person began shooting inside the crowd, and at least two other people were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Deputies were called to Sipes Avenue for reports of a loud, crowded gathering. Once on scene, one deputy engaged an armed individual who, officials say, was firing into the crowd. One person was taken to a local hospital and later pronounced dead, and at least two others suffered non-life-threatening wounds, as reported by WESH.
"The deputy's actions likely saved lives by immediately stopping an armed individual who was actively firing at a large gathering," the Seminole County Sheriff's Office said in a statement. The sheriff's office also requested that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement conduct an independent investigation into the shooting, according to WESH.
FDLE to lead independent probe
The sheriff's request means FDLE detectives are expected to take the lead on the inquiry, which is standard practice in Florida for officer-involved shootings. In similar cases, FDLE typically gathers body-worn camera footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence, a process that can take weeks, as noted by FOX 35 Orlando.
Sanford already on edge
The Midway shooting comes amid a string of recent violent incidents in Sanford. Earlier this month, investigators were working two separate late-night shootings in the Goldsboro neighborhood that left one person dead. Local reporting has highlighted how police and residents are watching a rise in neighborhood gun violence. The twin Goldsboro shootings were previously detailed by local coverage.
Officials have not released the name of the person who died or the deputy involved, and the sheriff's office has not provided a timeline for releasing body-camera or other evidence. The investigation remains active, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Seminole County Sheriff's Office through its press and media page, according to the Seminole County Sheriff's Office.
