Deputies shoot, kill Merritt Island man in armed standoff

Report of domestic dispute leads to standoff situation

MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. – Brevard County Sheriff's deputies shot and killed a man in an armed standoff at a Merritt Island home after they say the man confronted them with a handgun.

Deputies received a call regarding a domestic dispute from 490 Belair Avenue on Merritt Island at about 4:45 p.m., according to a release.

According to a 911 call, the resident had fired several rounds within the residence. As deputies attempted to make contact with the man, he confronted them with a handgun.

The deputies responded to the threat, shooting and hitting the man,according to the release.

The man was transported to the Cape Canaveral Hospital Emergency Room, where he later died. His identity is not being released at this time.

"Law enforcement is a very dangerous job, which requires split second decisions. The deputies were placed in a very difficult situation and reacted appropriately to address the lethal threat," said Sheriff Wayne Ivey. "I am very thankful that no one in the community nor our deputies were injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with the deputies, their families and the family of the decedent."