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Manhunt underway after Fla. officer shot in head; $100K reward offered

Authorities said the officer, who was not immediately identified, is in critical condition

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By Joe Mario Pedersen
Orlando Sentinel

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Daytona Beach Police Department is searching for a man it says shot an officer in the head Wednesday night at an apartment complex.

The department is also offering $100,000 for anyone who can help authorities find the suspect, DBPD said in a Facebook post.

manhunt suspect Othal Wallace

Othal Wallace is wanted in the shooting of a Daytona Beach police officer.

New York Daily News

The incident took place at around 9 p.m. at133 Kingston Ave. when an officer came into contact with 29-year-old Othal Wallace, DBPD reported.

The officer responded to the scene due to reported suspicious activity in the area. When the officer spotted Wallace, he tried to ask Wallace questions, but Wallace dismissed the officer and tried to walkaway, according to a bodycam video.

Wallace reportedly shot an officer in the head at the scene and then fled, DBPD said.

The officer was taken to Halifax Health Medical Center for treatment and remains in critical condition, DBPD said.

“No change in the status of my hero who was shot in the line of duty last night,” said DBPD chief Jakari Young. “He’s fighting while all of us are praying The manhunt continues for the coward responsible for this.”

DBPD and multiple other agencies are searching for Wallace, who may be driving a gray 2016 Honda HRV with a California tag of 7TNX532.

Those with information are encouraged to call 911 immediately. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers of Northeast Florida at 888-277-TIPS (8477).

Central Florida law enforcement agencies reacted, including Orlando Police chief Orlando Rolón.

“The Orlando Police family keeps the officer, loved ones, and our brothers and sisters at [ Daytona Beach Police Department] in our prayers,” Rolón said. “We also pray for the safety of all law enforcement officers who are now risking their lives as they search for the person who committed this heinous crime.”

©2021 Orlando Sentinel. Visit orlandosentinel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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