Target Of Manhunt Has Threatened Shootout, Sheriff Says

The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office is asking motorists to avoid the area of State Road 52 between Hayes Road and the Suncoast Parkway Thursday afternoon.

Deputies say there is an active search under way for Brandon Goggins, 30, on several outstanding warrants, including grand theft auto.

“He is on foot and possibly armed and dangerous,” the sheriffs’ office warned in an email to media.

Those in the area who see Goggins are asked to not approach him.

“Please call 911 immediately if you see this man,” the agency wrote.

More than 30 units, K9s and the agency’s helicopter are searching for Goggins.

Goggins reportedly was spotted driving a vehicle stolen out of the central Pasco area Thursday afternoon. Deputies say he drove into Safety Town after a pursuit that reached speeds of 100 mph. Goggins then bailed out of the vehicle and took off on foot.

Goggins left a woman behind in the car, the sheriff's office said. That woman was brought into custody and identified Goggins as the man in the car, Sheriff Chris Nocco said in a press conference.

The woman also told deputies Goggins is armed and said "he's going to shoot it out with law enforcement," Nocco said.

The search remained active as of 6 p.m. with deputies asking residents to avoid the area.

No further information is available at this time.

Photo courtesy of the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office