Gainesville Police Investigate Shooting That Left Two Dead and Two Officers Injured
GAINESVILLE, A deadly shooting in Gainesville on Wednesday morning left two men dead and two police officers critically injured, according to the Gainesville Police Department.
The shooting occurred on January 14 in the 1300 block of East University Avenue and prompted a massive emergency response from local and county law enforcement agencies. Gainesville Police Department Public Information Officer Art Forgey said officers were dispatched to what was initially reported as an active incident.
Authorities said more than 25 Gainesville police vehicles, multiple ambulances, and at least three fire trucks responded to the scene. Deputies with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office also assisted as officers worked to secure the area.
Police later confirmed that the suspect involved in the shooting is deceased. Investigators said one of the victims was shot in the head at a nearby 84 Lumber location. In addition to the two civilian deaths, two Gainesville police officers were shot during the incident.
The injured officers were transported under trauma alert to UF Health Shands Hospital, where they were listed in critical condition, authorities said.
Gainesville police confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public, though the investigation remains active. A media staging area was established at the Walgreens located at Waldo Road and East University Avenue as detectives processed the scene.
Residents and commuters were urged to avoid the area due to a heavy law enforcement presence and severe traffic congestion. Traffic along Waldo Road was reported to be at a standstill for several hours while investigators conducted their work.
Some residents in northeast Gainesville reported hearing multiple gunshots during the incident.
Authorities have not released the identities of the deceased victims or the injured officers. Officials said additional information will be provided as the investigation continues and next of kin are notified.
