The Orlando Park Police Department faced a harrowing gunfight at a Florida hotel, ultimately neutralizing a suspect linked to the shooting of two officers.
Orlando Park Police Department Faces Intense Gunfight in Florida Hotel Showdown
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The tragic incident unfolded on Saturday morning, just hours after the perpetrator allegedly wounded the Orlando Park Police Department officers, leaving them in critical condition. Identified as 28-year-old Daton S. Viel, the suspect had a deeply troubling past, marred by an extensive history of violence and criminal activities, according to Orlando Park Police Department Chief Eric D. Smith. The night of terror commenced around 11 p.m. on Friday when two Orlando Park Police Department officers were on the trail of a vehicle wanted in connection with a Miami homicide. During the course of their investigation, the suspect opened fire, inflicting severe injuries upon the officers. “After an exhaustive search, officers managed to pinpoint the suspect’s location at the Holiday Inn, nestled in the 5900 block of Caravan Court,” Chief Smith recounted. “With utmost caution, the SWAT team was swiftly deployed to the hotel at 6 a.m., ensuring the safe evacuation of the premises.” The assailant then stole another vehicle and fled the scene, prompting a tense police pursuit and a frantic manhunt that gripped the city in fear. In a bid to apprehend the dangerous gunman, the suspect barricaded himself inside a room, pushing the Orlando Park Police Department to strategize and appeal for surrender. However, the perpetrator adamantly refused to yield, setting the stage for a deadly confrontation.
Suspect Linked to Officer Shooting Neutralized by Orlando Park Police Department

(PHOTO: Darya Sannikova)
Governor Ron DeSantis expressed his unwavering support for the police department, acknowledging the bravery and sacrifice of the Orland Park Police Department officers who put their lives on the line daily to serve and protect the community. He asserted that the perpetrator must face the full weight of justice for his heinous actions. “This incident marks a somber day for our department,” Chief Smith solemnly declared, acknowledging the profound impact of the officers’ injuries and the toll the encounter took on their colleagues. Despite the sorrow and mourning that shrouded the Orlando Park Police Department, the chief praised his officers’ exceptional bravery and unwavering commitment to upholding the law. As investigations continue into the motive behind the suspect’s violent spree and his potential connections to other criminal activities, the community remains grateful for the rapid response and unyielding dedication displayed by the Orlando Park Police Department. Their actions serve as a powerful reminder of the risks officers undertake daily to safeguard the lives of citizens and uphold the principles of justice in the face of danger.