A Charlotte County deputy died Sunday night, according to Florida Sen. Rick Scott. Charlotte County Sheriff Prummell said deputies are actively working two active scenes, which he will address later this evening.
A significant law enforcement presence remains at two locations in Charlotte County.
The first scene is across from Sunseeker Resort, near a Chevron gas station in Charlotte Harbor. Earlier in the evening, the nearby US-41 bridge was closed for hours.
Westbound Melbourne Street heading toward US-41 remains closed during the investigation.
The second scene is at Popeyes restaurant on Kings Highway near I-75. Law enforcement on the scene includes the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office, Florida Highway Patrol, North Port Police and ATF.
The Charlotte County Sheriff's Office has not released any further information. A news conference is expected tonight.
Nicole Zielinski of Port Charlotte said she was driving to dinner when she saw the scene unfolding.
Zielinski said, "Obviously, I want to see what the commotion is about when I heard it's about a police officer dying. And that's not good to hear. It's sad."
At 7:41 p.m. Sunday night, Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell posted an image of a CCSO badge with the black mourning band on Facebook , with no text or additional context.
Multiple state officials have also weighed in. Sen. Rick Scott said in a post on X , " Devastated to hear of the passing of a Charlotte County deputy tonight. I spoke with @CCSOFLSheriff Prummell to let him know Ann and I are praying for his team and the deputy’s family tonight. Please keep them in your prayers. "
State CFO Jimmy Petronis said in a
post on X
, "
Tragic reports out of Charlotte County tonight of an officer-involved shooting. As details unfold, please keep all of our first responders in your prayers. May God Bless these heroes.
"
Additionally, Congressman Greg Stube, who represents the district, said in a post also on X , " My office is closely monitoring the reports of multiple shootings, including a potential officer-involved shooting in Charlotte County near the Sunseeker this evening. Please avoid the area to allow Charlotte County Sheriffs Office and Punta Gorda Police investigate. My prayers are with all of those involved in responding. God bless our law enforcement officers. "
NBC2 crews are on the scene and will update this developing story.
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