MELBOURNE, Fla. – Two Melbourne airport police officers shot a gunman who tried to breach a fence, looking to get onto a plane, Friday morning, according to Melbourne Airport Police Department Chief Renee Purden.
The shooting happened just outside of Melbourne International Airport, according to the chief. She said, around 9 a.m., the man 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, but the chief did not provide any information on his condition or identity.
Purden said the officers were OK after the shooting.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the shooting.
The shooting is not affecting 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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