TAMPA, Fla. – A Tampa police officer who was shot earlier this week at a district workplace close to Busch Gardens is recovering at house after being launched from the hospital Thursday evening.
The backstory:
Grasp Police Officer Jordan Laupert was shot within the line of responsibility on the police division’s North Tampa district workplace on Wednesday morning.
Police Chief Lee Bercaw mentioned that the suspect arrived on the district workplace shortly earlier than 8:15 a.m. and spoke to Laupert. The pair appeared to have a cordial dialog.
Within the physique digital camera footage, you’ll be able to hear the officer give the person the tackle to TPD headquarters after which the person mentioned, ‘Thanks.’
“That they had what seemed to be a cordial dialog within the rear of the constructing between the within the again,” Bercaw mentioned.
Whereas strolling away, Laupert mentioned he felt a gunshot wound to the leg.
The suspect then took off throughout the road to the again of Busch Gardens, the place officers discovered him with what seemed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the top.
Bercaw says that he believes the suspect is a 21-year-old man who was coping with a psychological well being disaster.
“Clearly, we all know that there is some sort of psychological well being disaster happening, as a result of he shot himself,” Bercaw mentioned. “Initially he was coming in, eager to complain about one thing, however the particulars of which might be but to be decided.”
After the capturing, officers instantly rushed to Laupert and put a tourniquet on his leg.
What they’re saying:
“I need to thank everybody for his or her concern, help, and prayers,” Laupert said. “I am really grateful for my fellow officers, Tampa Hearth Rescue, and the TGH workers who have been there for me in these first vital moments. And to all the neighborhood, your real concern for my security and your nicely needs have meant the world to me and my household. We will not thanks sufficient.”
What’s subsequent:
Investigators are reviewing the physique digital camera and safety digital camera footage to assemble extra data.
The Supply: This story was written with data supplied by the Tampa Police Division.
