TAMPA, Fla. – Hillsborough County A deputy was forced to defend himself after a suspect grabbed a gun during a traffic stop Saturday night, the Sheriff’s Office said. tampa.

Investigators said the shooting occurred at West Hillsborough Boulevard and Elliot Drive around 9:15 p.m.

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According to authorities, deputies stopped a vehicle due to an unclear tag. They approached the car and Deputy Jared Mincemeyer, 26, asked to see the suspect’s hands.

The suspect briefly showed his hands and Mincemeyer asked him to get out of the car, according to the sheriff’s office. Authorities said the suspect reached for a gun and started to get out of the vehicle with the firearm in his hand. Mincemeyer stepped back before shooting the suspect, according to HCSO.

Authorities say the suspect is from St. He was taken to St. Joseph Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, he said.

Authorities say Mincemeyer has no previous use of force and has been with HCSO since October 2022.

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“Our deputy was simply doing his job trying to protect our community when he had to defend himself against a gunman,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. “No lawmaker wants to face this situation, but when faced with a deadly threat they must take action to protect themselves and others. Our lawmakers risk their lives every day to keep our community safe. It is unfortunate that criminals make these choices. It can lead to fatal consequences.”

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is investigating the incident.

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