2 Deputies Injured, Suspect Killed In Ruskin Shootout: Hillsborough Sheriff

Updated: Thursday, 10:04 p.m.

RUSKIN, FL — Two deputies were injured, and the suspect was killed in a Thursday shootout in Ruskin, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

After a woman reported that her ex-boyfriend, Christopher Dmuchowski, 34, held her captive at gunpoint through Wednesday night, deputies went to his residence on West Shell Point Road on Thursday just before 10 a.m.

Knowing he was armed and alone at the home, deputies used a drone for surveillance and saw Dmuchowski leave the residence and walk toward a vehicle in the parking lot.

As Deputy Sopharmony Muon, 33, arrived at the scene, Dmuchowski opened fire, shooting him, the sheriff’s office said. Deputy Colton Daniels also arrived and was shot during the gunfire.

Sergeant Harrison Bashner arrived during the gunfire and shot the suspect, the agency said.

Dmuchowski, a convicted felon, was taken to Tampa General Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 12:32 p.m.

The injured deputies were airlifted to TGH with serious injuries and are recovering, the sheriff’s office said.

"This suspect was intent on killing our deputies," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "He ambushed them, and he would have succeeded if not for the heroic actions of one of our own. Because of the training, technology, and equipment our deputies are provided, this response was a success. They are trained to react under the most dangerous circumstances, and that preparation made all the difference today.”

Chronister also praised deputies and dispatchers who responded as the shooting unfolded.

"This suspect's reign of terror ended today because of the training, bravery, and heroic actions of these deputies," he said. "I want to thank the deputies who immediately responded after hearing desperate calls for help. I also want to recognize our dispatchers. Their professionalism and calm under immense pressure helped coordinate this response from the very beginning. We are grateful for everything they do."

Muon has been with HCSO for two years, Daniels for four years, and Bashner for 28 years, according to the sheriff's office. Their names were released with their permission.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement will conduct a full investigation.

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