Early on Friday morning, police in Palm Bay discovered a dead woman inside a house, and the man who had apparently shot at them was brought to the hospital when they returned fire, hitting him.
When 9 a.m., police were called to a residence on Biarritz Street, NW, in reference to a suspicious event. It was eventually found to be an armed domestic disturbance, according to the police.
Police reported hearing a gunshot from inside the house around 9:13 p.m. Shortly after, the 29-year-old suspect—later identified as Joseph Fleming—came out of the frame and opened fire on the officers, who retaliated with their own bullets.
Following Fleming’s escape, authorities stated a brief search of the neighborhood was conducted.
Fleming was apprehended after being discovered in the vicinity by the Brevard County Aviation Unit. According to a news release from the police, he suffered critical injuries and was taken to the hospital.
As is customary in situations involving police-involved shootings, Palm Bay Police Chief Mariano Augello informed media that three officers will be placed on paid administrative leave. As is customary, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement will look into the shooting as well.
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“My prayers are to the family of our victim this morning,” Chief Augello stated. “I pray for the men and women that serve this city and service our community. I pray for them every day, but I’m going to pray for them a little bit harder today.”
Chief Augello withheld the identity of the woman and the names of the participating police.
According to the police department, assistance was provided by Palm Bay Fire Rescue, West Melbourne Police Department, and Brevard County Sheriff’s Office.
