Nationwide Manhunt Underway After Jacksonville Corrections Officer Killed in Domestic Dispute Escalation at Local Gas Station

Jacksonville, FL — An off-duty corrections officer was killed early Saturday morning after intervening in a domestic dispute at a local gas station near Jacksonville International Airport. Authorities have launched a nationwide manhunt for the suspect, who remains at large following the incident which concluded with the tragic death of Sheriff’s Officer Brad McNew.

The violent altercation, which was captured on surveillance, took place around 1:20 a.m. at the Love’s gas station. Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters detailed that the confrontation began inside a black Mustang and quickly escalated. Witnesses reported seeing a male suspect shifting from the passenger seat to confront a female driver. The suspect then allegedly placed a handgun on the vehicle’s hood, forcefully pulled the woman from the car, and assaulted her.

McNew, a 24-year veteran of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, arrived on scene shortly after completing his shift. Upon approaching to assist the female, he inquired about her well-being to which the male suspect claimed it was “family business.” The confrontation continued to grow increasingly aggressive, culminating with the suspect shooting McNew as the pair drove away.

Sheriff Waters confirmed that McNew succumbed to his wounds after being transported to a hospital. Notably, he was not in uniform during the incident. This marked the first death of a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office officer in the line of duty due to violence since 1995.

The suspect was last observed driving a black 2000s model Ford Mustang with North Carolina license plates. Law enforcement officials have described the suspect as armed and dangerous, and the public is urged to report any sightings to the police immediately.

Sheriff Waters expressed his devastation over the incident, highlighting the brutal loss of a dedicated officer. “This is an attack not only on our agency but on the very fabric of law and order,” Waters stated, emphasizing the commitment to justice for McNew’s untimely death.

Mayor Donna Deegan also shared her condolences, recognizing Officer McNew’s heroism and longstanding service. “Jacksonville will always be grateful for the heroism he showed while off duty and for his 24 years of service to our city,” Deegan stated, reflecting the profound impact of the incident on the community.

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate, relentlessly following leads in hopes of apprehending the suspect. The tragic event has triggered an outpouring of support from the community and fellow law enforcement, reaffirming the dangers officers face and their dedication to protecting the public.

As the manhunt extends beyond local boundaries, authorities remain hopeful that the suspect will be captured swiftly to face justice for the heinous act, ensuring that McNew’s sacrifice is honored and not forgotten.