– UPDATE 5:50PM –
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a deputy-involved shooting that occurred this afternoon at the Sunoco store at 1502 Recker Hwy, near Ave. O SW, in Winter Haven. Nobody was injured due to gunfire.
At approximately 2:45 pm on Monday, June 2, 2025, PCSO deputies attempted to arrest a documented gang member who was in possession of a trafficking amount of methamphetamine in front of the Sunoco.The suspect fled in a vehicle, crashed into multiple law enforcement vehicles, and forced a deputy to the ground, injuring him in the process. A deputy fired several shots at the suspect, striking the suspect’s vehicle, but the suspect was not hit.
Deputies apprehended the suspect about a mile away after he sideswiped another vehicle after crossing the railroad tracks on North Lake Shipp Drive. Two occupants in the other vehicle were transported to the hospital with non life-threatening injuries.
“The suspect had a blatant disregard for the safety of others. A very dangerous drug dealer is now where he belongs in the Polk County Jail. Fortunately, our deputy was not seriously injured and is expected to make afull recovery.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
The suspect has been identified as 39-year old Tonyo Evans of Eagle Lake; he has an extensive criminal history.
Per standard protocol, there are three investigations currently underway: anindependent investigation by the 10th Judicial Circuit’s Officer-Involved Deadly Incident (OIDI) Task Force; an internal investigation by the PCSO Administrative Investigations Unit; and all investigative findings will beforwarded to the 10th Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office for their investigation and review.
Tentative charges against Evans include: multiple counts of attempted murderof a law enforcement officer, trafficking in methamphetamine, fleeing to elude, and other charges.
– Initial Report –
Winter Haven, FL – June 2, 2025, 3:44 PM
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office and Winter Haven Police Department are investigating a disturbance with a significant police presence at two locations this afternoon.
Scene one is at the Sunoco gas station at 1502 Recker Hwy, where a crime scene has been established and the area is cordoned off with crime tape.
Scene two involves road closure near Avenue N SW by the May Shipp Canal, blocked off due to the ongoing investigation.
Details remain scarce as authorities work to uncover more information. Avoid these areas to prevent delays. Stand by for updates.
