A Marion County sheriff’s deputy escaped injury early Sunday morning when gunfire rained down around him and a crowd of bystanders outside a Citra bar.
Deputy Joseph Spratlin was trying to disperse a crowd outside the Paradise Bar and Lounge at 13007 North U.S. Hwy. 441 when a gunman or gunmen opened fire on him and several bystanders, according to a Marion County Sheriff’s Office report.
Spratlin quickly took cover to avoid being hit by the gunfire, with his patrol vehicle taking at least one round. He was unable to return fire because he was focused on protecting the frantic bystanders, the report says.
Numerous deputies and detectives responded to assist Spratlin, but by the time they arrived the bystanders had dispersed.
Detectives are still working to identify eye witnesses and obtain statements that could help with the investigation. They also are asking the public for help in finding those involved in the crime.
Sheriff Billy Woods, who this past week handled a school shooting at Forest High School and spent time in Gilchrist County after two deputies were shot to death, said he’s had enough of such violence.
“The shooting early this morning hits us right here at home and this type of senseless violence has got to stop,” Woods said. “A law enforcement officer’s worst fear came true in Gilchrist County last week, and I can tell you that all of my people are on edge.”
Woods also implored anyone who was outside the bar early this morning to help deputies identify those involved in the shooting.
“Every single day, all of us in law enforcement leave our families to serve and protect you, our citizens,” he said. “Whoever committed this crime last night is a danger to us all. Someone needs to do the right thing and turn that person, or persons, in today.”
Anyone with information about the shooting is being asked to call Sgt. Donald Buie at (352) 368-3538 or Marion County Crime Stoppers at (352) 368-STOP (7867). Tips also can be submitted at www.ocalacrimestoppers.com. For Crime Stoppers,reference 18-29 in your tip. If you use Crime Stoppers and your tip leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward.
