Tallahassee Police Make Arrest in Attempted Homicide of Officer

September 26, 2023

Today, Sept. 26, the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) arrested one suspect in connection with the home invasion robbery and subsequent shooting of a TPD officer that occurred in the 2300 block of Sandpiper Street on Sept. 25.

TPD's Violent Crimes Unit assumed the investigation and determined 25-year-old John'Darious Wright and several suspects entered a residence in the 2300 block of Sandpiper Street and fired one round at the victims inside of the home. As an officer was responding to the scene, they observed a suspicious vehicle in the area and reported the tag to dispatch. The officer then observed a suspect fleeing the scene and gave chase. During the foot pursuit, Wright emerged from the residence and began firing at the officer who sustained serious injuries. Wright and the additional suspects then fled the scene.

Additional responding officers began immediately rendering life-saving aid to the injured officer before Emergency Medical Services arrived to transport the officer to a local hospital. The officer is currently listed in stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery.

Within hours of the shooting, TPD detectives and agents with the United States Marshals Service identified and located the suspect vehicle at the Baymont by Wyndham, located at 3210 North Monroe Street. Wright and a second man were detained for questioning by detectives.

The subsequent investigation collected physical evidence and witness statements that helped detectives identify Wright as the shooter in this case and develop probable cause for an arrest. He was charged accordingly and transported to the Leon County Detention Facility. The second man was released from custody.

At this time, this investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests could be forthcoming.

The swift arrest of John'Darious Wright serves as a testament to multiple law enforcement agencies working quickly and collaboratively to apprehend a violent offender and keep the public safe. TPD reminds you to report criminal activity by calling TPD at 850-891-4200. You can also remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 850-574-TIPS.

ARRESTED:

John'Darious Wright, 25, for attempted first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer, attempted first-degree murder, home invasion robbery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and obstruction of a search warrant.