An armed man was fatally shot by Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies on New Year’s Eve following a lengthy standoff at a residence in southwest Ocala.
Shortly after 12:15 p.m. on Sunday, December 31, MCSO deputies responded to the 6600 block of SW 19th Avenue Road in Ocala in reference to a disturbance involving an armed man. Several witnesses reported hearing gunshots being fired both inside and outside of the man’s home, according to the sheriff’s office.
Upon arrival at the residence, deputies heard shots being fired in the area, and a “long standoff” ensured with the armed man. Negotiators arrived on scene in an effort to bring about a peaceful resolution.
MCSO stated that the man exited the home while “firing more rounds into the air.” He then allegedly pointed his firearm towards the deputies, and they proceeded to shoot him.
The man was transported to a local hospital in serious condition, where he eventually succumbed to his injuries.
In an update on Monday, January 1, the sheriff’s office stated that the man involved in the standoff with deputies has been identified as 41-year-old Steven Clark, Jr.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is currently investigating the shooting incident, which is standard practice. MCSO stated that all deputies involved in the shooting will be on paid, administrative leave while this investigation is underway.
“I will continue to do all I can to protect our citizens and my deputies,” stated Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods on Monday. “If you threaten a life, we will stop you.”