Accused bank robber dies after officer-involved shooting near New College

Garrett Phillips
·1 min read
2

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — An alleged bank robber has died following an officer-involved shooting near New College of Florida on Monday, the Sarasota Police Department said.

Police said 54-year-old William Pickett robbed Fifth Third Bank on Saturday, Feb. 24, and had an outstanding warrant for his arrest when he was stopped by officers on Monday.

The shooting occurred following the traffic stop near University Parkway and US 41. Pickett was wanted for robbery with a firearm and grand theft between $10,000 and $20,000. He was confirmed deceased by Sarasota police on Tuesday.

Traffic stop leads to officer-involved shooting near New College of Florida in Sarasota

Witnesses told News Channel 8 they heard “heavy gunfire” in the area around the time of the traffic stop.

Footage captured by Eagle 8 showed Pickett’s vehicle submerged as officers worked to recover it. Once pulled from the water, crime scene technicians placed multiple yellow markers on the windshield which had numerous bullet holes.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is continuing to investigate the incident.

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