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Walton County, FL - A Walton County deputy was fatally shot during a confrontation outside a Dollar General store in Mossy Head on Wednesday following a call about a disturbance at the location.
According to reports, Deputy William May had volunteered to work an overtime shift when he responded to a report of a disorderly individual who needed to be removed from the store.
After a brief conversation inside, Deputy May escorted the man outside.
Within seconds of stepping out, the suspect allegedly pulled a firearm and opened fire, striking May multiple times.
Despite being wounded, May managed to return fire.
Both May and the suspect were hit during the exchange, which authorities say involved at least 18 rounds.
The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene, while Deputy May was rushed to a hospital.
Due to poor conditions, a medical airlift was not possible, and he succumbed to his injuries.
Sheriff Michael Adkinson said May was wearing body armor, which stopped multiple rounds, but one bullet struck beneath the vest, ultimately leading to his death.
May had been with the sheriff’s office since 2014 and became a deputy in 2019.
He leaves behind a wife and two children.
Authorities stated that the suspect legally possessed a concealed carry permit and had several other firearms at his home.
While law enforcement had prior interactions with him, they were limited to non-violent calls such as welfare checks.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the incident.