Two Arrested After Sheriff’s Deputies Respond to Illegal Handgun Tip:

In the Pine Hills area, a tip regarding illegal handguns prompted swift action from law enforcement authorities on Friday:

According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the incident, which unfolded around noon along Pine Hills Road, resulted in the arrest of two individuals without any reported injuries.

Acting on information received, deputies intercepted two suspects boarding a rideshare vehicle near Pine Hills Road and Balboa Drive. The tip suggested the possession of modified automatic handguns by the individuals in question, prompting immediate intervention.

During the encounter, one of the suspects attempted to evade capture by leaping through the rear passenger window while brandishing a handgun. In response, a deputy discharged their service weapon, leading to the apprehension of the suspect following a brief pursuit on foot.

Sheriff John Mina, upon reviewing the body-worn camera footage, emphasized the rapid escalation of the situation, highlighting the deputy’s perceived threat to their safety. He expressed gratitude that no injuries occurred to the deputy, nearby community members, or the suspect.

The second suspect also attempted to escape from the vehicle but was subsequently located on a nearby street by law enforcement personnel:

An eyewitness recounted observing a man trespassing onto his property, prompting a swift response to alert authorities. Thankfully, the timely intervention prevented any harm.

Law enforcement recovered one handgun at the scene, confirming the absence of casualties. The deputy involved in the discharge of their weapon, described as a 9-year veteran, will undergo administrative paid leave pending an investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

Sheriff Mina clarified that the rideshare vehicle driver was not implicated in the incident or the ensuing investigation.

To inform the public, the sheriff’s office promptly issued an alert via social media, advising caution in the vicinity of Pine Hills Road and Elinore Drive