Florida Man Shot by Police After Pointing Realistic-Looking BB Gun at Officers

A 20-year-old man was shot by police in Kissimmee, Florida, on Thursday after reportedly pointing what appeared to be a rifle at officers near a local shopping center. The incident, which unfolded midday, drew a large law enforcement presence and has sparked renewed discussion over the risks posed by realistic-looking replica weapons.

Authorities stated that officers were dispatched following a 911 call about an armed individual in the area. Upon arrival, officers encountered Matthew Wagner holding what they believed to be a rifle. Chief Charles Broadway explained that officers gave multiple verbal commands instructing Wagner to put down the weapon. According to police accounts, Wagner then raised the rifle in the direction of the officers, prompting them to open fire in what the chief described as a necessary act to protect themselves and bystanders.

"The subject then pointed this rifle at the officers and at that time, the officers were forced to shoot the subject to defend themselves and others in the area," Chief Broadway said. Officers immediately began rendering first aid to Wagner before emergency medical services arrived and transported him to the hospital. Officials later confirmed that Wagner is currently in stable condition.

An early investigation revealed that the weapon wielded by Wagner was actually a BB gun closely resembling a real rifle, specifically identified as a Daisy Christmas Wish Red Ryder model. Such replica firearms have been at the center of safety concerns in recent years due to their uncanny similarity to actual firearms, making it difficult for law enforcement and the public to distinguish between genuine threats and imitations in the heat of the moment.

The three officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave, per standard procedure, while the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the State Attorney’s Office conduct a comprehensive review of the incident. Officials have not yet released details regarding a possible motive or whether Wagner will face any charges related to the confrontation.

Witnesses described a tense and confusing scene. One bystander, Dexter Brown, recounted seeing Wagner holding the gun and appearing to look up at nearby trees, moving slowly as if "hunting for birds or squirrels." Brown expressed uncertainty about the young man's intentions, echoing the broader community's concern and confusion over what transpired.

Chief Broadway expressed relief that no officers or civilians were injured during the encounter, stating, "I’m thankful that none of our officers were injured and I want to acknowledge the quick actions of our officers who responded under such a high-pressure circumstance." The review of the evidence and the ongoing investigation are expected to provide additional clarity in the coming days.