The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) is investigating an incident that resulted in deputies being shot at and one being injured.
On Sunday, April 14, 2024, just before 10 a.m., HCSO deputies patrolled the Beacon Meadows Park area. During that time, they encountered a suspect who had trespassed from the park the day before.
Deputies asked him to leave, and for more than 20 minutes, deputies tried to de-escalate the situation, but the suspect refused to comply with the commands, putting his hand in and out of his coat’s pockets.
Deputies asked the suspect several times if he was armed, but the suspect said he was not.
Deputies deployed their tasers, and while the suspect was on the ground, according to HCSO, the suspect shot three times, hitting one deputy.
Thankfully, the deputy was not critically injured and was transported to the hospital.
“Today’s situation could have ended in tragedy. Thankfully, our deputy narrowly escaped serious injury despite the careless actions of this suspect,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Not only was the deputy’s life endangered today, but the lives of those around him were also at risk.”
When Carpenter was arrested, deputies found a firearm and a knife in his coat.
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Anthony Carpenter is facing the following charges:
- Attempted First-Degree Murder of a Law Enforcement Officer with a Firearm (x3)
- Resisting an Officer with Violence
- Armed Trespass
“I am furious that someone would endanger the lives of our deputies, especially at a park on a Sunday morning where families gather and children play,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “I am immensely proud of the swift and brave response of our deputies in handling this dangerous situation.”
Our three HCSO deputies involved in this incident were:
- Deputy Joseph Lopez, 60
- 18 years of service
- Deputy Sean Bush, 38
- 12 years of service
- Deputy Kerr Craige, 33, released from the hospital
- Seven years of service
This is an active investigation, and the Public Affairs Office will provide all further information.
The Public Affairs Office will release Carpenter’s booking photo when it becomes available.