MELBOURNE, Fla. – A man was killed Wednesday after he was shot “multiple times” when he fired at law enforcement officers at a Melbourne apartment complex, according to the police department.
Police responded just before 8 a.m. to the Pentagon Apartment Complex along Strawbridge Avenue.
According to Melbourne police Chief David Gillespie, officers were called there after residents reported a “suspicious situation.” Police later said William Banks, 47, had called the department, and police responded to check on his well-being.
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When they arrived and knocked on his front door, police said Banks began shooting through the door at the officers.
“(When officers arrived), they were engaged by the suspect with gunfire,” Gillespie said. “Multiple rounds were fired at the officers, they took cover and were eventually able to get to safety.”
Sky 6 flew above the scene showing armored vehicles among the law enforcement units gathered there.
Banks again shot at officers, eventually coming out of the apartment to continue shooting
Gillespie said at least two officers fired, and Banks was shot “multiple times.”
***UPDATE***
— Melbourne Police (@MelbournePolice) June 26, 2024
The incident has been contained at this point, however the investigation remains ongoing. While there will still be a law enforcement presence in the area, there is no further threat to public safety.
Tenant Chris Viger told News 6′s James Sparvero that the apartments looked like a warzone.
“I was sitting there, thinking, ‘they’re probably going to be a while, hopefully a peaceful resolution,’ and then pop, pop, pop, pop, pop,” Viger said.
Other law enforcement agencies assisted during the incident.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the officer-involved shooting. The officers involved in the shooting were placed in an administrative assignment, as per protocol.
No additional information has been provided at this time, including Banks’ motive for the shooting.
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