MELBOURNE, Fla. – Two Melbourne airport police officers shot and killed a gunman who tried to breach a fence, looking to get onto a plane, Friday morning, according to Melbourne according to a news release.
The shooting happened just outside of Melbourne International Airport, according to the chief.
Investigators said, around 9 a.m., John Neibuhr, 40, of Palm Bay, was trying to get into a secure gate and spoke with airport staff, saying he wanted to get onto a plane.
The man walked away and staff called airport police, according to the chief. Purden said two officers made contact with the man, who was in a car with a weapon, off of Harry Sutton Road. A post from Melbourne Mayor Paul Alfrey stated the man had a gun.
Purden said the officers opened fire but did not say whether the man fired any rounds. He was taken to the hospital where he later died from his injuries.
Purden said the officers were OK after the shooting.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the shooting.
The shooting did not effect airport operations and the property is secure, according to the chief.
It’s the second shooting involving police in Melbourne this week.
Just two days ago, police said William Banks, 47, died when he shot at officers.
Friday, police released Banks’ deranged call to 911 which prompted officers to check on him.
“This is not really an emergency,” the caller told the operator. “This just means that I declare war against the United States of America. I’ve had it with you all. You can find me right here. Come get it.”
The dispatcher then asked the caller if he had any weapons but he hung up.
No officers were hurt in Wednesday’s shooting, either.
“We are all here to do our jobs and we do it as safely so that everyone can go home,” Purden said.
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