Deputies shoot and kill man armed with a rifle at a busy intersection in Brandon.

In a critical incident that unfolded in Brandon, Florida, on Wednesday morning, deputies from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office fatally shot a man armed with a rifle near a bustling intersection. The event transpired at approximately 7:25 a.m. when multiple calls were made to authorities regarding a suspicious individual carrying what was described as an “assault rifle” at the corner of Winding Wood Avenue and Providence Road.

Chief Deputy Joseph Maurer detailed the circumstances surrounding the incident during a news conference that was broadcasted live by WFLA Channel 8. The man in question was reportedly adorned in military-style fatigues, equipped with a tactical vest that contained body armor, and wearing a communication headset.

When deputies arrived at the scene, they issued commands for the individual to drop the weapon. Chief Deputy Maurer confirmed that officers instructed the suspect multiple times to relinquish his firearm. However, the individual failed to comply with these commands. Around 7:38 a.m., after assessing the potential risk to the surrounding community, three deputies discharged their weapons, critically wounding the man.

Authorities indicated that the rifle was loaded, and the suspect had two additional magazines secured within his body armor. The identity of the deceased has not been disclosed pending notification of family members.

Maurer provided additional information regarding the responding deputies, noting that one officer has served for 35 years, while another has one year of service, and the third deputy has been with the department for approximately six months. The sheriff’s office is expected to release the names of the officers involved following standard procedures.

In accordance with established protocol, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement will undertake an investigation into the shooting. This process is typical in incidents of this nature to ensure a thorough examination of the circumstances involved.

During the press conference, Chief Deputy Maurer highlighted the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the potential dangers the armed individual posed to the local community, particularly given the proximity to area schools and busy commercial establishments, including a Lowe’s and several shopping centers.

As this story continues to develop, updates will be provided by various news outlets, including Media News Source.