Suspect barricaded in Tampa apartment complex found dead: TPD

TAMPA, Fla. — A suspect who barricaded himself inside a Tampa apartment complex and fired at officers was found dead by authorities Thursday.

At approximately 3:30 p.m., a Tampa Police Department (TPD) detective was conducting a follow-up investigation at Meridian Pointe Apartments, located at 2450 E. Hillsborough Ave. The detective was meeting with the victim of an unrelated incident involving the suspect, who also had an outstanding arrest warrant.

During the investigation, the victim told the detective that she saw the suspect at the complex.

When the detective found the suspect, he fled into the hallway of a nearby building. The detective then chased the suspect and called for backup.

Officers arrived on scene and were shot by the suspect. One officer returned fire.

The suspect then entered an apartment in the building occupied by adults and small children.

The TPD SWAT team, which includes hostage negotiators, was activated as officers left the building. People in the apartment were also able to leave safely.

Negotiators worked for more than an hour to get the suspect to surrender peacefully.

Shortly before 6 p.m., the suspect was found dead inside a closet in a bedroom of the apartment.

“This was a dangerous situation for our officers and innocent bystanders,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “While we are thankful that no one else was injured, our goal is always to achieve a peaceful resolution. We will work to support everyone affected today.”

The officer has been placed on administrative leave, according to authorities.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement will take the lead in investigating this incident.