Orlando Police Fatally Shoot Suspect in Downtown Incident Involving Firearm
Early this morning, April 20, 2025 at approximately 1:30 a.m., OPD Crime Center detectives were monitoring the area of Orange Avenue and Central Boulevard when they observed a physical altercation occur outside Thrive Cocktail Lounge & Eatery, located at 13 South Orange Avenue.
During the fight, detectives observed a handgun fall from the suspect’s pants. The suspect picked up the weapon and put it back in his pants.
Crime Center immediately alerted nearby officers to respond. As officers were responding, the suspect pulled out the handgun and fired a single round into the air.
Responding officers gave multiple commands for the suspect to drop the weapon. The suspect refused the commands. In response, officers fired their firearms striking the individual.
The suspect was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), where he was later pronounced deceased.The suspect had three prior misdemeanor arrests, all drug-related.
The officers involved were not injured and will be on paid administrative leave. As with all officer involved shootings, FDLE will conduct an independent review of the incident, that will be turned over to the State Attorney’s office. Additionally, the Orlando Police Department will conduct its own internal investigation.
The officers did have their body worn cameras on during the incident. The quick response in this incident is an example of the ongoing efforts to enhance safety in downtown Orlando. Through increased patrols, proactive policing, and citizen-generated calls, OPD has encountered approximately 500 firearms in the area over the past year.
