Following a Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office deputy-involved shooting, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating.
On May 25, 2025, at 4:41 a.m., a call came into HCSO's Communications Center regarding a possible burglary in progress with an individual shot on the 7500 block of Carolton Circle in Tampa.
When deputies arrived on the scene, they used extensive measures, including verbal commands, repeatedly asking anyone inside the home to exit. In response, a roommate and a young child came out of the residence. Deputies then entered the home and rescued an adult female victim who had sustained a gunshot wound to the hand. At the same time, another team of deputies began searching the home for the victim's mother, who was identified as the suspect.
Deputies encountered a locked bedroom door in the home. Multiple commands were given to open the door, but all were ignored. Deputies forced the door open and saw the suspect, Rosamond Brookins, 46, lying on the floor with a gun in her hand. Multiple commands were given to put down the weapon. Brookins did not comply with those commands. At 4:55 a.m., one deputy fired multiple shots at the suspect. The suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Deputy Joshua Thomas is the deputy involved in this incident. He has been with HCSO for 10 months and has 6 years of prior service with Temple Terrace Police Department. He has no prior use of force.
Deputy Thomas has been placed on administrative leave with pay pending completion of the investigation.
"This is a tragic situation that no family should ever have to endure," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Our deputies acted swiftly to protect the lives of a woman and child in immediate danger. Domestic violence can escalate in an instant—if you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out for help. You are not alone, and there is support available."
All additional updates will come from FDLE.