A Connecticut man named Joseph DiFusco was shot and killed by a Florida sheriff’s sniper after he fired more than 200 rounds at neighboring homes and authorities over several hours. The incident took place at the Kingston Shores condominiums near Ormond-by-the-Sea in Florida. Fortunately, no one else was harmed during the incident.
Sheriff Mike Chitwood mentioned that DiFusco, who was 56 years old, was a snowbird staying at an Airbnb in Florida. It is believed that he brought firearms from out of state. Deputies initially responded to the condominiums at 4 a.m. after DiFusco reported having suicidal thoughts. However, he declined medical transport at that time. Two hours later, deputies were called back to the area when DiFusco started firing into neighboring units and at law enforcement officers.
The sheriff’s office stated that DiFusco fired over 200 rounds during the incident. Despite attempts to negotiate with him, he continued to shoot at authorities whenever they tried to communicate with him. DiFusco’s family had contacted authorities before the incident out of fear for their safety, as they were reportedly sleeping in a car due to their concerns about him.
It was mentioned that DiFusco had stopped taking his medication and had not slept for days leading up to the incident. He barricaded himself inside his rental unit and was armed with at least three guns. The standoff lasted for more than five hours before the sheriff’s sniper took action, resulting in DiFusco’s death.
The sheriff’s office released images showing the outside walls of the condominium complex riddled with bullet holes following the ordeal. It was a tense situation that required authorities to evacuate neighbors from the area. Chitwood emphasized the seriousness of the incident, highlighting the dangers posed by individuals who are heavily armed and unwilling to negotiate with law enforcement.
In situations like these, where individuals exhibit erratic behavior and pose a threat to themselves and others, it is crucial for law enforcement to handle the situation with care and prioritize the safety of the community. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement officers when dealing with individuals in crisis and the importance of having protocols in place to address such scenarios effectively.
