Two CCSO deputies involved in Aug. 12, Dunnellon shooting (UPDATED)
Thomas Edward Burnett, 47, of Dunnellon, FL
Upon arrival, deputies were met by a suspect, later identified as Thomas Edward Burnett, 47, of Dunnellon, FL, who was on the property in violation of a court order. After the suspect threatened the deputies with a firearm, they sought shelter outside the front door. The suspect then emerged from the residence, armed with two firearms, and fired one of his weapons toward one of the deputies. Both deputies returned fire, striking Mr. Burnett, who was transported in unstated condition to Ocala Regional Medical Center, located at 1431 SW 1st Ave. in Ocala, FL.
"Situations like this develop quickly, and our deputies performed flawlessly last night, protecting our community and themselves," stated Sheriff Mike Prendergast. "Their response to a dangerous situation speaks volumes for the efforts of our rigorous training, and I am glad that our deputies prevailed uninjured."
As per standard prodecure in regard to a deputy involved shooting, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) responded to the scene and is conducting an independent investigation into the incident, and the deputies involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave.
At 2:44 pm on August 16, Mr. Burnett was placed under arrest, upon his discharge from the hospital, by the Citrus County Sheriff's Office, on a Citrus County warrant for aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer ($10,000 bond), possession of a firearm by a convicted felon ($10,000 bond), and premeditated murder (no bond). He was transported to the Citrus County Detention Facility in Lecanto, FL.