Man Arrested for Slapping Officer, Interfering with Firefighters at Vehicle Fire

Garry Michael Cooper Jr. charged with battery, resisting arrest, and obstructing firefighters

Feb. 23, 2026 at 8:08pm

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Garry Michael Cooper Jr., a 32-year-old Gainesville resident, was arrested after allegedly slapping a police officer and interfering with firefighters responding to a vehicle fire in the parking lot of the Hunters Crossing shopping center. Cooper reportedly tried to get into the burning vehicle despite not being the owner, leading to a physical altercation with the officer that ended with Cooper being tased and arrested.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges first responders can face when bystanders interfere with emergency operations, potentially putting themselves and others at risk. It also raises questions about mental health issues that may have contributed to Cooper's actions.

The details

According to the police report, when officers arrived to assist firefighters with the vehicle fire, Cooper was actively interfering with their efforts. Firefighters told Cooper, who claimed to be a 'trained EMT', to step back, but he refused and tried to get into the burning vehicle. The vehicle's owner confirmed Cooper was not authorized to be near the car. When the officer told Cooper to leave, he slapped the officer's arm and tried to run back to the fire, leading to a physical altercation that ended with Cooper being tased and arrested.

  • The incident occurred around 4:55 p.m. on February 22, 2026.
  • Cooper was arrested and charged the same day.

The players

Garry Michael Cooper Jr.

A 32-year-old Gainesville resident who was arrested for battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence, and interfering with firefighters.

Gainesville Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested Cooper.

Gainesville Fire Rescue

The fire department that was responding to the vehicle fire when Cooper allegedly interfered with their efforts.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to interfere with first responders doing their jobs to protect public safety.”

— Robert Jenkins, Gainesville resident

What’s next

Cooper is scheduled to appear in court on February 28th, where a judge will determine if he is eligible for Mental Health Court.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of respecting the authority of first responders and not obstructing their emergency operations, which can endanger both the public and the responders themselves. It also highlights the need for better understanding and support for individuals experiencing mental health crises.