The Bonifay Police Department is confirming that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred in Bonifay on the evening of Monday, October 13, 2025.
Preliminary information indicates that at approximately 8:01 p.m., a Bonifay Police officer conducted a traffic stop on Judy Lucas Drive. During the course of the stop, a probable cause search of the vehicle was initiated. While the search was underway, the male driver, identified as a Washington County resident, was able to retrieve evidence from the vehicle and flee on foot.
After the suspect ran from the scene, an immediate perimeter response was requested and established. Holmes Sheriff’s Office provided assistance with the perimeter, and utilized their drone team. Holmes Correctional Institution (Holmes CI) and Northwest Florida Reception Center (NWFRC) K-9 units were also requested and responded. Holmes CI was the first on scene and deployed tracking units beginning at Judy Lucas Drive, extending north of Highway 90 and into the wooded area northwest of the location.
During the search shots were fired by the Corrections K-9 team around 9:19 p.m. with no other details available pending further investigation from FDLE. Medical personnel on scene immediately provided aid until Holmes County EMS arrived. Despite life-saving efforts, the individual was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Following the incident, Bonifay Police Department personnel made immediate notifications to FDLE and the Florida Department of Corrections (DOC). Upon the arrival of FDLE, the scene and investigation were turned over to FDLE for further Investigation.
Further information will be released by FDLE upon completion of the investigation.
