Fort Lauderdale Police Fatally Shoot Man After Disturbance Call

Authorities say the man opened fire on officers, who then returned fire and killed him.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Fort Lauderdale Police Department is investigating a fatal police-involved shooting that occurred after officers responded to a disturbance call on Saturday afternoon. According to the police chief, the officers were approached by a man who opened fire on them, prompting the three officers to return fire and fatally shoot the suspect. The details of the initial disturbance call are still unclear.

Why it matters

Police shootings, especially those involving civilians not connected to the original incident, continue to be a sensitive and controversial topic. This incident raises questions about the use of force by law enforcement and the need for thorough investigations into such events.

The details

Police Chief Bill Schultz stated that officers responded to a disturbance call around 12:30 pm on Saturday at Chateau Park Drive off Northwest 9th Avenue. When the officers arrived, they were approached by a man who opened fire on them. The three officers then returned fire, striking and killing the suspect. The man killed was not part of the initial incident that prompted the disturbance call, the details of which are still unclear.

  • The incident occurred around 12:30 pm on Saturday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Bill Schultz

The Fort Lauderdale Police Chief who provided details about the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Officers performed life-saving efforts until Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue arrived and transported the suspect to Broward Health Medical Center. The suspect, an adult male, was pronounced dead at the hospital.”

— Bill Schultz, Fort Lauderdale Police Chief (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the incident, and the involved officers will be placed on paid leave pending an internal review, which is standard procedure for the department.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges and complexities surrounding police use of force, especially in situations where civilians not connected to the original call are involved. The thorough investigation by state authorities will aim to provide more clarity and accountability around the events that led to the fatal shooting.