Authorities are still investigating what caused a suspect lead law enforcement on a chase from Marion County and into Citrus County Sunday morning. The suspect was shot and killed in Citrus County. 

  • Sabal Pipeline shooting leads to chase, crash in Citrus County
  • Suspect shot, killed after engaging deputies
  • Suspect was armed, dangerous per Citrus Sheriff

Officials said the incident started in Marion County around 9 a.m. Sunday when the suspect began shooting at the Sabal Pipeline equipment with a high power rifle. 

The suspect fled the scene and lead Marion deputies on a chase into Citrus County on Highway 200. Citrus deputies and the Florida Highway Patrol joined the pursuit. 

After crashing along U.S. Highway 41 near Floral City Park, officials said the suspect engaged deputies and was subsequently shot and killed. 

Officials are not releasing the name of the suspect at this time. 

Officials said no deputies were injured during the shooting and those involved will be put on administrative leave. 

Citrus County Sheriff Mike Prendergast responded saying, “We know that the suspect was armed and extremely dangerous, and pending the examination of the evidence at the scene, we will be able to determine what other weapons he had in his possession at the time of the shooting. Fortunately, none of our Citrus County Deputies, Marion County Deputies or Florida Highway Patrol Troopers were injured as a result of this crime.”