JACKSONVILLE, FL – An officer-involved shooting unfolded during a routine traffic operation, leaving one suspect dead and an officer injured. The incident took place near the intersection of Trout River Boulevard and Rebalt Scenic Highway. According to local law enforcement, the officer involved was conducting a traffic stop when the suspect opened fire, prompting the officer to return gunfire.
The officer, identified as A.C. Gaulding, a 15-year veteran with the department, was struck in the foot during the exchange. Gaulding had never been involved in a shooting during his career until this incident, which marks the fourth officer-involved shooting for the department this year. Despite his injury, Gaulding is reported to be in good spirits.
The suspect, who was later identified but whose name has not been released, succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a local hospital. Initial investigations revealed that the suspect was wearing a bulletproof vest and was armed with a rifle and a second handgun inside his vehicle. It remains unclear which weapon the suspect used to fire at the officer.
Authorities are still piecing together the motivations behind the suspect’s actions, as it is not common for individuals to wear bulletproof vests during routine traffic stops. The presence of a drum magazine in the rifle suggests potential malicious intent, according to the police chief, although the suspect’s exact plans remain unknown.
The state’s attorney’s office is conducting an independent investigation into the shooting to ensure all protocols were followed. Preliminary reviews of body camera footage indicate that Officer Gaulding acted in accordance with departmental procedures.
Questions linger regarding the nature of the traffic stop and whether it was prompted by routine checks or if there was a specific reason for targeting the suspect’s vehicle. The sheriff’s department noted that traffic deployments are common and may arise from community complaints or known areas of concern.
Despite the tense confrontation, officials emphasized that crime rates in the area have decreased significantly compared to the previous year. They described the shooting as an isolated incident and praised the officer’s actions in preventing what could have been a more serious threat to public safety.
The investigation continues as authorities await further information about the suspect’s background and any potential connections to other criminal activities. Meanwhile, Officer Gaulding is expected to recover fully from his injuries.