FL Deputies ‘Justified’ In Shooting Man Threatening His Family: Police

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — The actions of three deputies who shot and critically injured an armed man who was threatening his family with a gun the night of Nov. 8 in St. Petersburg were “justified,” according to the findings of the Pinellas County Use of Deadly Force Investigative Task Force.

St. Petersburg police Chief Anthony Holloway released the task force’s findings about the shooting Tuesday morning.

“Based on the comprehensive investigation, including witness statements, physical evidence and the imminent threat posed by Reed towards his family members and the three deputies, it has been determined that the deputies' actions were justified and in accordance with Florida State Statute 776.012,” the task force's report said.

• Also Read: Armed Man Critically Injured In Deputy-Involved Shooting In FL: Police

Deputies responded to a domestic disturbance at a home in the 2500 block of 47th Avenue N. around 10:30 p.m.

They found the suspect, Jeremy Reed, 42, arguing with his wife and his teenage stepson and stepdaughter, the task force said.

While interviewing the woman and her children outside the home, deputies learned that Reed had threatened the girl with a gun during their argument.

Reed came outside with a gun in his hand and ran toward the area where the family was speaking with deputies, according to the task force.

When he ignored commands to drop the gun, the three deputies, Jesse Creaser, Dylan Schultz, and Stuart Kellman, fired at him.

He was hit by multiple bullets, taken into custody and brought to Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital with critical injuries. Reed is currently in Pinellas County Jail after receiving medical treatment.