Palm Bay Police Respond to Officer-Involved Shooting: Two Officers Injured, Suspect and Unnamed Victim Deceased
Palm Bay Police Respond to Officer-Involved Shooting: Two Officers Injured, Suspect and Unnamed Victim Deceased
A domestic disturbance call escalates into a deadly exchange of gunfire, leaving two officers injured and two dead, including the suspect.
On Sunday, January 28, 2024, a routine afternoon took a tragic turn in Palm Bay when a domestic disturbance call escalated into a deadly exchange of gunfire. The incident occurred around 2:07 pm in the area of Emerson and Lexington St NE.
Palm Bay police officers responded to the call and were confronted by an armed suspect, 24-year-old Brandon Kapas. The encounter resulted in an exchange of gunfire, leaving two officers injured and Pappas dead at the scene. An additional unnamed victim related to the initial call was also found deceased.
The injured officers, whose names have not been released, were rushed to a local hospital. They are expected to survive their injuries, according to Palm Bay Police Chief Mariano Augello.
In a press conference following the incident, Chief Augello expressed his pride in the officers' actions, stating they did what they were trained to do: "neutralize and stop a threat to our community." He emphasized that the department will not tolerate violence against its officers.
Palm Bay Police Chief Augello holds press conference about shooting. Video credit Fox 35.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is currently investigating the incident, with the Brevard County Sheriff's Office providing support.
Chief Augello extended his gratitude to the community, thanking the medical staff at the local hospital, the Brevard County Sheriff's Office, the Melbourne Police Department, the West Melbourne Police Department, and the Indian River County Sheriff's Office for their support. He also expressed his heartfelt prayers for a speedy recovery for the injured officers and condolences to the families of the deceased.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks our law enforcement officers face daily while serving and protecting our community. As the investigation unfolds, we will continue to provide updates on this story. Stay tuned to The Palm Bayer for the latest news and developments in Palm Bay.