HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. -- Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) deputies shot and killed a man after he allegedly pointed a gun at them, authorities said.
According to a Sheriff's Office press release, the 911 center received a call from a family member from a home at the 10000 block of Courtney Palm Boulevard in Tampa on Saturday at about 11:15 p.m.
The caller stated that they were concerned that a loved one had committed suicide, adding that they heard gunfire from the bathroom.
When deputies arrived at the home, they went to the bathroom and opened the door. Anthony Dadante, 67, was in the bathtub when deputies entered.
"What began as a response to a potential suicide changed into a life-threatening confrontation that no deputy ever wants to face," said Hillsborough Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Our deputies had to make a tough decision in an instant, and it was the right one."
Deputy Jose Rodriguez, 29, moved the shower curtain back and saw blood on Dadante's chest and a firearm in his hand.
Deputy Rodriguez and Deputy Jenna Roberts, 29, asked Dadante to drop the firearm several times, Sheriff's Office officials said.
Dadante then pointed the firearm at Deputy Rodriguez leading both deputies to shoot him, according to the press release. Dadante died from his injuries.
"The holidays can be a difficult time for many," said Chronister. "If you're struggling and feeling overwhelmed, know you're not alone. Don't hesitate to reach out to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay."
- Roberts: with HCSO since September of 2017
- Rodriguez: with HCSO since March of 2022
- Prior Use of Force: Neither Roberts nor Rodriguez had prior use of force incidents with HCSO
- Dadante's Background: No criminal history or prior calls for service at this address
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is handling the investigation; all other updates will come from their office.