Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigates deadly shooting involving sheriff’s deputies in Deerfield Beach

Broward County, Florida – The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is leading an investigation into a fatal shooting involving Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) deputies that took place late Wednesday night in Deerfield Beach. The incident left one woman dead and a deputy injured.

According to official reports, the situation unfolded just after 9:20 p.m. on May 7, when Broward County Regional Communications received a 911 call about a disturbance. The caller reported that an armed woman had pointed a firearm at someone in the area of 2060 N.E. Second Street.

Deputies from the Broward Sheriff’s Office quickly responded to the scene, where they encountered the woman, identified as Santrina Lester, inside a vehicle. Authorities say that during the encounter, Lester was repeatedly ordered not to draw her weapon. Despite these commands, she produced a firearm, prompting several deputies to fire their service weapons.

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The incident reportedly took place both inside and outside of Lester’s vehicle. After the shooting, deputies administered CPR and other life-saving measures until emergency medical personnel from Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue arrived. Lester was then transported to Broward Health North, where she was pronounced dead.

A BSO deputy sustained an injury during the altercation. Officials have confirmed that the deputy is expected to recover. A firearm was recovered on the ground next to Lester, according to investigators.

The FDLE has taken over the investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to the shooting. The agency will examine evidence, interview witnesses, and review any available video footage as part of their standard procedure for all officer-involved shootings in Florida.

In line with BSO protocol, the deputies involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative assignment pending the outcome of the investigation. This is a common step following incidents involving the use of deadly force.

Authorities have not released the number of deputies who discharged their weapons or any further details about the nature of the original disturbance that triggered the 911 call.

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As the investigation continues, both FDLE and BSO have stated they are committed to transparency and a thorough review of the facts.

The shooting has left many in the community with questions and concern, as agencies work to piece together the full picture of what happened during those tense moments on Wednesday night in Deerfield Beach.

No further updates have been released at this time.