Polk County Deputy-Involved Shooting Leaves Suspect Dead in Lakeland
Lakeland, FL – April 26, 2025 – A Polk County Sheriff’s deputy fatally shot a suspect late Friday night at the intersection of Highway 92 and Combee Road, marking the third consecutive deputy-involved shooting in Polk County over the last three Fridays.
The suspect, identified as 37 year old John Snyder, was described by Sheriff Grady Judd as a homeless methamphetamine user with a lengthy criminal history, including burglary and theft to support his addiction. Snyder had active felony warrants for burglary and theft and had evaded capture earlier in the week
According to the Sheriff, the incident began around 11:30 p.m. when Deputy Goodman, a 4½-year veteran of the department, spotted Snyder in front of a McDonald’s on the east side of Lakeland. When Goodman attempted to take Snyder into custody, Snyder resisted and pushed the deputy. Goodman deployed a Taser, but it was ineffective, and Snyder fled eastbound on Highway 92.
As additional deputies arrived from the east, Snyder reportedly turned back, pulled a knife, and shouted, “I have a knife!” Despite repeated commands to drop the weapon, Snyder advanced toward Deputy Goodman, who then fired several shots, striking Snyder. Deputies immediately attempted life saving measures, but Snyder was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sheriff Judd noted that Snyder had met with his mother on Thursday, telling her, “This is the last time we see each other,” suggesting he may have anticipated a fatal outcome. Two independent witnesses confirmed that Snyder lunged at the deputy before the shooting, corroborating the deputy’s account.
Sheriff Judd emphasized that this is early in the investigation and the investigation continues. No further at this time.
– Initial Report –
A deputy-involved shooting occurred just after 11 PM on Friday, April 25, 2025, in Polk County, involving an armed suspect. The suspect is deceased, and no Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies were injured.
Sheriff Grady Judd will address the media at 2:30 AM.
