The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is investigating a deputy-involved shooting involving a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Deputy.
On Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 9:15 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop for an obscured tag on West Hillsborough Avenue and Elliot Drive in Tampa. The deputies approached the vehicle, and Deputy Jared Mincemeyer, 26, asked to see the suspect’s hands. The suspect briefly showed his hands. Mincemeyer asked him to exit the vehicle, at which point the suspect reached for a firearm.
The suspect began to exit the vehicle with the firearm in his hand. Mincemeyer backed up before shooting the suspect. The suspect was transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.
Mincemeyer has no prior use of force. He has been with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office since October 2022.
“Our deputy was simply doing his job trying to protect our community when he was forced to defend himself against an armed individual,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “No deputy ever wants to face this situation, but when confronted with a deadly threat, they must act to protect themselves and others. Our deputies put their lives on the line every day to keep our community safe. It’s unfortunate when criminals make choices that lead to fatal outcomes.”
The Public Affairs Office will release the body camera video when it is available, along with the suspect’s identity, once the next of kin has been notified.
FDLE is handling the investigation.