Hillsborough County, FL – At around 11:15 PM, officials received a call regarding a potential suicide from a home in the 10000 block of Courtney Palm Boulevard in Tampa. One of the family members reported hearing a gunshot from the bathroom and suspected that the individual inside had committed suicide.
Two Hillsborough County deputies, Deputy Jose Rodriguez and Deputy Jenna Roberts, arrived at the location. When they entered the bathroom, they saw the suspect, Anthony Dadante, 67, in the bathtub behind the shower curtain.
Through the curtain, the deputies observed that Dadante was holding a gun, and his chest appeared to be covered in blood.
Both deputies repeatedly instructed Dadante to drop the gun.
Deputy Rodriguez then pulled back the shower curtain, at which point Dadante pointed the firearm at him. In response, both deputies fired at the suspect.
Dadante was pronounced dead at the scene.
Dadante has no criminal history, and there have been no prior calls for service at this address.
“What began as a response to a potential suicide changed into a life-threatening confrontation that no deputy ever wants to face,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “Our deputies had to make a tough decision in an instant, and it was the right one.”
If you or someone you love needs help, you can call the 24/7 Crisis Center of Tampa Bay at 211.
“The holidays can be a difficult time for many,” Sheriff Chronister added. “If you’re struggling and feeling overwhelmed, know you’re not alone. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.”
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the shooting.
HCSO released bodycam footage from the incident on Sunday.
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