CLERMONT, Fla. —
The Clermont Police Department is investigating after a Friday night incident where an officer shot an elderly man who was firing a gun at first responders.
The man has been identified as Wallace Wainwright, 81, of Clermont.
According to Clermont police, Wainwright’s wife called 911 indicating there was some kind of medical issue.
After their arrival, Wainwright displayed a gun and began shooting. Nobody was hit or injured as fire department and EMS personnel left the scene and called for police assistance.
Clermont police were greeted with gunfire from Wainwright upon arrival. An officer returned fire, striking Wainwright.
Wainwright stopped firing his weapon and was then transported to a local hospital, where he is in stable condition. His wife was not injured during the incident.
Atwood was headed home and saw the wave of law enforcement.
“We counted probably 25 patrol cars that were driving really fast. Traffic stopped,” Atwood said.
When Wainwright recovers, he is facing a host of charges, including attempted felony murder, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and attempted murder of a law enforcement officer.
“My heart goes out to the family that is dealing with a tragic situation and my heart goes out to first responders who don’t know what they’re walking to,” Atwood said.
Atwood says her heart goes out to their community in Lake County.
The officer who shot Wainwright was placed on administrative leave following the incident.
The shooting will be investigated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
https://www.wesh.com/article/clermont-man-shot-injured/40825791