On Tuesday, April 7, 2026, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd held a press conference detailing a fatal deputy-involved shooting in Lakeland involving 76-year-old Ronald Breese, a Vietnam War veteran.
Summary of the Incident
- Location: The shooting occurred on Socrum Loop Road West in Lakeland.
- The Suspect: Ronald Breese, a 76-year-old military veteran, was identified as the armed suspect. He was killed during the confrontation.
- The Deputies: No deputies were injured during the exchange.
- Circumstances: According to Sheriff Judd, deputies were responding to a situation where Breese was armed and presented a threat. While the full investigation is ongoing, Judd stated that the deputies “neutralized the threat” after Breese refused to comply and engaged with law enforcement while armed.
Key Takeaways from the Press Conference
Sheriff Judd expressed that while it is always tragic when a veteran is involved in such an escalation, his deputies had to respond to the immediate danger posed by the suspect.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is conducting a standard investigation into the shooting, and the State Attorney’s Office will review the findings once complete.
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Did you run out of bullets again?
Vetern or not if someone is going to put themselves in that situation our officers have to neuturalize the threat and that soounds likethey did just that.
Ever heard of a tranquilizing dart? Look into it.