Off-Duty Deputy Fires, Kills Armed Teen During Shoplifting in Osceola County Walmart

 According to the Osceola County Sheriff's Office, a 16-year-old boy was shot and died Thursday evening during a dispute at a Walmart in Poinciana.

The shooting took place at the Walmart at 904 Cypress Parkway. Authorities claimed a loss prevention officer notified an off-duty deputy working at the store about three men supposedly concealing products in their clothing.

Sheriff Chris Blackmon claims that one of the suspects was fleeing the store with a firearm. The deputy fired his gun and struck the adolescent. The suspect was subsequently announced dead. During a news conference, Blackmon stated, "Our deputy shot downrange at the suspect and took him out."

Though authorities have not officially revealed the adolescent's name, Naporsha Jones Spruill informed WESH 2 that the victim, Jairus, went by "JJ" among family and friends. She characterized him in a statement as a brilliant, loving young guy who loved football. She claimed he had earned two MVP rings and played both quarterback and running back. Asking for prayers and privacy while the family mourns, she said he was full of life, love, and dreams.

Officials verified that the two other people implicated—one minor and one adult in his early 20s—have been found and accounted for. Whether they will be prosecuted is yet uncertain.

The inquiry is still in progress.