POINCIANA, FL – February 19, 2026 – An Osceola County Sheriff’s deputy, working an off-duty security detail at the Walmart Supercenter located at 904 Cypress Parkway in Poinciana, fatally shot an armed suspect Thursday evening following an attempted theft and flight that endangered customers.
According to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, the incident unfolded around 7:45 p.m. when Walmart’s loss prevention officer alerted the deputy that three males had concealed merchandise in their clothing and were heading toward the store exit without paying.
The deputy confronted the suspects, who then attempted to flee. One of the males produced a handgun and, while running, approached other customers in the store. In response to the immediate threat posed by the armed suspect, the deputy fired his weapon, striking the individual. The suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The other two suspects escaped the store and fled in an unknown direction.
Several good Samaritans inside the store informed the deputy that they were armed and offered assistance as the remaining suspects fled. No additional injuries were reported among customers, store employees, or the deputy, who was not harmed.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has been notified and will lead the investigation into the officer-involved shooting, which is standard protocol. The deputy has been placed on routine administrative leave pending the outcome of the inquiry.
Crimeline is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the two remaining suspects.
The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that deputies are regularly hired by Walmart to provide a visible security presence for shoppers at the location.
This remains an active investigation. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Crimeline or the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. Further updates will be released as they become available.
The scene at the Walmart was secured Thursday night, with a heavy law enforcement presence reported in the area. Shoppers were advised to avoid the location during the initial response.
