UPDATE: MARCH 23, 2025
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is investigating a deputy-involved shooting involving a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office deputy.
On March 23, 2025, at 3:47 a.m., HCSO’s 911 Center received a call reporting a domestic violence situation at a residence on the 10500 block of Lake Montauk Drive in Riverview.
Within minutes, deputies arrived on scene and located a woman outside the home who had been physically assaulted. She informed deputies that the suspect, Manuel Alvarez, 50, was still inside the residence and armed with a gun.
Deputies entered the home and gave several verbal commands to Alvarez. While attempting to make contact, Alvarez pointed a firearm at a deputy and threatened to shoot him.
"As our deputies tried to make contact, Alvarez yelled for them to come up and threatened, to shoot them,” said Sheriff Chad Chroninster. “These were clear threats to our deputies' lives.”
In response to the immediate threat, Deputy Shawn Swinford, 35, discharged his service weapon, striking the suspect.
Alvarez was transported to a local hospital, where he is in critical condition and currently undergoing surgery.
Deputy Swinford has no prior use of force incidents with HCSO. He has been employed with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office since July 2024 and has eight years of prior law enforcement experience.
Deputy Swinford has been placed on administrative leave with pay pending completion of the investigation.
FDLE is conducting the investigation. All additional updates will come from their office.
“This was a volatile and dangerous situation that could have turned deadly for our deputies and others. Our deputies are trained to make critical decisions under pressure, and in this case, our deputy made a split-second decision to not only protect himself, but everyone in that home,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "This incident began with an act of domestic violence, a heartbreaking reality that affects individuals and families in our community. If you are a victim of abuse, I urge you to contact law enforcement. There is support, there are resources, and there is a way out."
If you need assistance or support, please reach out to The Spring of Tampa Bay, which offers support and resources for those affected by domestic violence. Their 24-hour crisis hotline is (813)-247-SAFE.