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BREAKING: Florida Deputy Shot During Traffic Stop

Callahan, FL – A Nassau County sheriff’s deputy was shot while conducting a traffic stop early Friday morning.

A Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) was also shot during a subsequent search for the gunman, WTLV reported.

The alleged shooter has been identified as 35-year-old Patrick McDowell.

McDowell stands five feet, 10 inches tall.

Police said should be considered armed and dangerous.

The initial attack occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m. during a traffic stop near Micker Street in the Callahan Area of U.S. 301, according to WTLV.

Details regarding the reason for the stop are unclear.

Police said McDowell allegedly shot a Nassau County deputy multiple times during the stop before fleeing the scene on foot.

A second person in the suspect vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation, WTLV reported.

The wounded deputy was transported to UF Health in Jacksonville with life-threatening injuries.

The deputy’s identity has not been released.

The wounded JSO K9’s condition is unknown.

Resident Denise Martin, who lives near the scene of the shooting, said she was out on her porch when she heard the gunfire erupt, WJXT reported.

Martin said she heard a barrage of gunfire, followed by one single shot.

A helicopter flew in about five minutes later and began searching a wooded area from the air, she told WJXT.

This is a developing story and we will keep you updated. For all of our updates, follow us on Facebook and go to your news feed preferences under your settings, then select that you want to see more of The Police Tribune’s posts in your news feed. Otherwise, Facebook may not show you updates.

Written by
Holly Matkin

Holly is a former probation and parole officer who is married to a sheriff’s deputy. She is a regular contributor to Signature Montana magazine, and has written feature articles for Distinctly Montana magazine.

View all articles
Written by Holly Matkin

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