Flagler Deputy Negotiator Talks Armed Man Into Peaceful Surrender

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The Flagler County Sheriff's Office says a deputy crisis negotiator helped talk an armed, suicidal man into surrender after a tense, hours-long standoff in a Palm Coast neighborhood. The incident began around 10 a.m. when deputies responded to a domestic violence call and the suspect, 22-year-old Isaac Lewis, fled the scene. Lewis later returned, got out of his car, and held a handgun to his head. Crisis negotiators, SWAT deputies, and analysts worked for over two hours to build trust and keep Lewis engaged, ultimately leading to his peaceful surrender.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of crisis negotiation and de-escalation tactics in volatile situations involving mental health crises and domestic violence. The sheriff's office's use of technology and human connection was critical in resolving the standoff without violence.

The details

According to the sheriff's office, the incident started around 10 a.m. on Burning Ember Lane during a domestic violence investigation. Deputies say 22-year-old Isaac Lewis was violating a no-contact order and was parked outside a home where the victim was staying. When a deputy tried to make contact, Lewis sped away in his vehicle, nearly hitting the deputy. Lewis soon returned to the neighborhood, got out of his car and held a handgun to his head. Deputies quickly recognized Lewis was not only suspected of a violent felony, but was also in the middle of a mental health crisis. Crisis negotiators, SWAT deputies and analysts in the agency's Real Time Crime Center responded to help. Deputy First Class Bryan Carter worked to build trust and keep Lewis engaged for over two hours, eventually leading to Lewis removing the magazine from the gun, clearing the chamber, and putting the weapon on the ground before being taken into custody.

• The incident started around 10 a.m. on Burning Ember Lane.
• After over two hours of negotiation, Lewis surrendered just before 2 p.m.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Lewis was arrested on charges of resisting arrest without violence, aggravated stalking, and fleeing and eluding. He was first taken to a hospital for medical clearance and will have access to mental health treatment at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility.