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PLANT CITY, FL — A man was fatally shot during a confrontation at the Speed Lane Travel Center early Friday morning. The incident occurred at approximately 2:15 a.m. at 501 County Line Road.
As reported by WFLA, officers from the Plant City Police Department responded to reports of a shooting with injuries. Upon arrival, they discovered a man with gunshot wounds lying near a vehicle. Despite life-saving efforts, the individual was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witness statements and security footage indicate that a verbal dispute began inside the gas station and escalated outside. During the altercation, the deceased reportedly advanced toward another individual while wielding a knife. In response, the other individual fired a single shot, striking the man.
The shooter remained at the scene and cooperated fully with law enforcement. Based on initial evidence, authorities have determined that the shooting falls within the protections of Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law. The investigation is ongoing.
This incident highlights how the presence of a weapon, such as a knife, can dramatically escalate a situation. Florida law allows individuals to use deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to stop an imminent threat of death or great bodily harm. When faced with an armed aggressor, the legal right to defend oneself becomes critically important.
