LAKELAND, Fla. — A wanted accused sex offender was killed Thursday after authorities say he opened fire on Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies from inside a tent, critically wounding a K-9 who was tracking him.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd identified the suspect as Angel Bowers, who was being sought on an outstanding warrant related to a sex offense involving a minor.
According to information released by Judd, deputies received information from Bowers’ bondsman that helped lead investigators to the area where Bowers was believed to be staying in a tent.
K-9 Deputy Natalie Oestreich and her 7-year-old K-9 partner, Ace, were among those involved in tracking Bowers.
Judd said that as deputies approached the tent, Bowers began firing through the tent with a 9mm handgun equipped with an extended magazine. Investigators say he fired multiple rounds before deputies returned fire.
During the gunfire, Ace was struck by a bullet. Judd said the K-9 took the shot while protecting his handler.
Ace suffered what the sheriff described as an arterial injury and was initially rushed to an advanced veterinary care facility in Lakeland. He was later flown to an advanced care facility in Lakewood Ranch for further treatment.
Bowers was struck multiple times when deputies returned fire and was pronounced dead at the scene.
During his remarks following the shooting, Judd used characteristically blunt language to describe what happened.
“Angel asked to be shot, and we gave him lead poison,” Judd said.
The sheriff also praised Ace and his handler, crediting the K-9 with putting himself between the gunfire and Oestreich.
The shooting remains under investigation, as is standard following a deputy-involved shooting. Additional details, including the number of deputies who fired and the exact sequence of the gunfire, are expected to be released as the investigation continues.
The Daily Ridge will provide additional information on Ace’s condition and the investigation as it becomes available
