Pinellas Deputy Killed On I-275
A deputy working traffic off-duty on I-275 was killed by a construction worker who then fled the area.
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Octavio Jones/Getty ImagesA deputy working traffic off-duty on I-275 was killed by a construction worker who then fled the area.
Following a press conference with Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, here's what we've learned:
UPDATE: 9:04 a.m. - A suspect has been taken into custody.
The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's assistance in locating a suspect, 35-year-old Victor Vazquez-Real, who is believed to have killed Deputy Michael Hartwick in a hit and run crash late last night.
Vazquez-Real's last known address is in Tampa. The public is encouraged to call Tampa Police Department or the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office with any possible information on his whereabouts.
This situation has caused closures of I-275 in Pinellas County. Southbound I-275 traffic has been diverted onto Ulmerton Road. Northbound I-275 traffic has been diverted onto Gandy Blvd. Expect traffic delays until midday. Updates will be provided as roads open.
