ORLANDO, Fla. — The Central Florida community is offering support after two police officers were shot during a traffic stop in downtown Orlando.
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Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith said just before 11 p.m. Friday, officers stopped a car near West Washington Street and North Garland Avenue that was wanted in connection with a homicide in Miami.
Orlando police Chief Eric Smith said a suspect shot two officers and carjacked another driver before fleeing the scene.
LIVE UPDATES: Orlando officers ‘fighting for their lives’ after being shot, suspects still at large
Central Florida law enforcement agencies and officials shared their support following the news. Read their reactions below:
Gov. Ron DeSantis
“Casey DeSantis and I are praying for the officers, their families and the entire Orlando Police Department. Our brave men and women in law enforcement put their lives on the line every day to serve and protect.
The perpetrator must face harsh justice.”
Ocoee Police
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd
Melbourne Police
Flagler Beach Police
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer
UCF Police Department
St. Cloud Police Department
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Ocala Police Department
Titusville Police Department
Seminole County Sheriff’s Office
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood
In a Facebook post, Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood said he sends his support to the Orlando Police Department to bring justice to the community.
Read his statement here:
Two Orlando police officers were shot and critically injured overnight. Two suspects are still at large. On behalf of the entire Volusia Sheriff’s Office I want to send all our support and prayers to these officers, their families, the Orlando Police Department and the whole community. I also want to echo the message Chief Smith delivered to the shooters: “We will find you, and you will be brought to justice.”
Representative Anna Eskamani
Oviedo Police Department
Orange County Sheriff John Mina
Daytona Beach Police Chief Jakari Young
Orange County Sheriff’s Office
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