Police Officer Shot And Killed In Tarpon Springs
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TARPON SPRINGS (CBSMiami/AP) — Police are investigating the shooting death of one of their own Sunday.
Florida authorities say a police officer was shot and killed in Tarpon Springs early Sunday.
The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office said in a statement that the shooting occurred at around 3 a.m. and that a suspect has been taken into custody.
Authorities say the suspect fled the scene of the shooting in a vehicle and crashed into a pole and another vehicle. He was then apprehended by police at that location.
The Tarpon Springs Police Department identified the fallen officer as 45-year-old Charles Kondek, a 17-year veteran of the local police department. Originally from New York, Kondek had previously served on the New York City Police Department for more than five years, authorities said.
Authorities say Kondek responded to a call for service shortly after 2 a.m. Police said the suspect shot at the officer and then fled the scene in a vehicle and crashed into a pole and another vehicle. He was then apprehended by police at that location.
The Tampa Bay Times reports that Kondek was the father of five children.
Governor Rick Scott issued the following statement:
Governor Scott said, "We are saddened by the death of Officer Charles Kondek who was killed in the line of duty early this morning. Ann and I pray that God provides comfort to his loved ones and all those who have been affected by this terrible tragedy."
Scott plans to attend the funeral of the fallen officer.
Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a statement regarding the loss of Officer Charles Kondek:
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of this brave police officer who sacrificed his life to protect his community. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Officer Charles Kondek's family and the members of the Tarpon Springs Police Department during this difficult time of mourning."
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio issued the following statement regarding the killing of police officers in Tarpon Springs, Florida and New York City:
"Earlier today my wife and I were saddened to hear of the killing of Tarpon Springs police officer Charles Kondek, just hours after the nation was shocked by the horrific murder of two NYPD officers. These killings are stark and somber reminders of the risks our men and women in law enforcement take each and every day to keep us and our families safe."
A news conference is to be held later in the day, the statement said.
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