👮 Who: Fort Walton Beach Police Department and Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office
🔫 What: Reports of shots fired and suspect arrest
🗓️ When: January 12, 2026, around 10:05 a.m.
📍 Where: Lovejoy Road and Burnette Street, near Okaloosa Academy Charter School
🚨 Why: To locate and apprehend a fleeing suspect and ensure public safety
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. — A reported shots-fired incident near a Fort Walton Beach school prompted a rapid law enforcement response and a brief lockdown Monday morning, officials confirmed.
According to the Fort Walton Beach Police Department, officers received multiple calls around 10:05 a.m. on January 12, 2026, reporting gunfire in the area of Lovejoy Road and Burnette Street. Out of an abundance of caution, Okaloosa Academy Charter School was placed on lockdown within moments of the initial calls.
Through a coordinated effort between Fort Walton Beach Police officers and Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office deputies, the suspect was quickly located, tracked, and taken into custody while attempting to flee the area. Authorities say the arrest was made without incident, and no injuries were reported.
Police emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
In a statement, the Fort Walton Beach Police Department thanked the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office for its assistance, highlighting the swift coordination and teamwork that led to the safe resolution of the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no additional details were immediately released.
Pro Communi Bono
St. Francis De Sales, Ora Pro Nobis!
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