‘Manhunt’ underway for suspect who shot dead police officer in Orlando Walmart
The suspect is wanted by authorities for killing a pregnant woman in December
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A “manhunt” is underway for the man who allegedly shot dead a female police officer outside a Walmart in Florida.
Suspect Markeith Loyd, 41, allegedly killed Debra Clayton, a 17-year veteran of the police department on Monday morning.
The Master Sergeant was also a wife and mother of two children.
Orlando police department John Mina wrote on twitter: "It is with such a heavy heart that I have to tell you that Master Sgt Debra Clayton a 17-year veteran of OPD, died at 7:40 am."
In a cruel twist of events, the unnamed deputy sheriff who was involved in the manhunt also died. He was killed on his motorcyle when a vehicle turned in front of him.
The suspect was spotted fleeing in a vehicle, said the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and has not yet been located.
"He walked by me, had a security vest and everything," witness James Herman told WFTV.
"I was walking down the sidewalk, right past the officer, and I heard her tell him to stop, or whatever, and he shot her. He shot her down."
He is wanted for the murder of his pregnant ex-girlfriend in December.
Sheriff Jerry Demings said at a press conference that Clayton was a "hero".
"We're sad on this day for many reasons," he said.
A total of 17 local schools were placed on lock down while the search for the suspect is underway.
Mayor Buddy Dyer said it was an “official day of mourning”.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments