UPDATE on deputy-involved shooting: Suspect, Paul David Badovinac, 41, of Homosassa, in stable condition

Citrus County Sheriff's Office
Friday, August 9, 2024, 3:51 pm

Citrus County, Florida - Yesterday, Thursday, August 8, Citrus County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) deputies were investigating 41 year-old Paul David Badovinac, of Homosassa, as the suspect in the felony battery of an elderly victim.

After deputies located Badovinac at the residence on West Jarovi Court in Homosassa, he immediately fled on foot and was pursued by one of the deputies. The deputy caught up with Badovinac, and in a heavily wooded area off West Linden Drive, Badovinac squared-off on the deputy and began to fight. During the altercation, Badovinac several times, attempted to remove the deputy's agency-issued service weapon from the deputy's holster. Badovinac finally released his grip and immediately armed himself with a knife, threatening the deputy, who was only a few feet away. The deputy drew his service weapon and fired two rounds at Badovinac, "immediately stopping the threat," according to a CCSO press release.

Badovinac, who received medical aid on the scene, was transported to a local hospital for further treatment. As of Friday afternoon, Badovinac was in stable condition. Following his release from the hospital, he will be arrested and charged accordingly.

"I am appalled by Mr. Badovinac's actions toward a vulnerable member of our community. Thanks to the quick actions taken by our deputies, he will answer for his crimes," said Citrus County Sheriff Michael Prendergast. "We want to thank the community for their continued support as this case continues."

Per agency policy, all officer-involved shootings are investigated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The deputy, following standard operating procedures, will be placed on administrative leave.