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Palmetto police officer shoots man who pointed rifle at them, chief says

The man was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Credit: vmargineanu - stock.adobe.com

PALMETTO, Fla. — A Palmetto Police Department officer shot a man Tuesday morning when he pointed a rifle toward them, according to law enforcement.

The shooting happened at a home in the area of 8th Street and 7th Avenue West, Police Chief Scott Tyler said in an email. Officers responded to the home following a call about a man who was making suicidal threats.

When they arrived, the man reportedly pointed the weapon and an officer fired in self-defense, Tyler said. 

The man was taken to an area hospital for treatment, the chief added. His condition is not yet known.

Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis is urged to reach out for help. You can contact the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay at 211 or call 911. Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. 

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