Deputies search for possibly armed suspect in Port Charlotte

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. (WINK) — The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office are searching for a possibly armed suspect in the Port Charlotte area.

Deputies responded to the scene near Malone Avenue and surrounding roads in Port Charlotte on Monday.

An increased law enforcement presence has been reported.

According to the sheriff's office, deputies are seeking a suspect who fled on foot, possibly armed. Residents are encouraged to remain inside at this time.

An update at 1:40 p.m., the sheriff’s office released the suspect being sought in connection to the scene near Malone Avenue.

According to the sheriff’s office, Matthew Ryan Cross, 32, is considered armed and dangerous. 

If anyone has seen him, they are asked to contact the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office immediately.

Increased law enforcement has also been reported in the area of Kenilworth Blvd in Port Charlotte. The sheriff's office reports a shot has been fired and that the scene remains "very" active.

Again, residents are encouraged to remain indoors at this time. 

There is no confirmation if the two scenes are connected.

Several Charlotte County schools were under lockdown while law enforcement conducted their active search. At 3:30 p.m., the lockdowns were lifted and dismissal will now proceed as normal.

According to the sheriff's office, there is no longer a threat in the area of Kenilworth Blvd. Schools have been released from lockdown. There is still an active, contained scene in this area.

WINK News reporter Damien Alvarado is at this scene gathering more information and providing updates as they become available.

Stay tuned to WINKNews.com, WINK News App, streaming, and on air for any new developments on this story.