This compilation of bodycam footage, provided by Sarasota police, records the incident wherein Michael Pickett, suspected of having robbed a local bank of at least $17,000, was shot and killed during the attempt to capture him. Viewer discretion is advised.

Sarasota police initially tried to perform a traffic stop on the suspect, Michael Pickett, pursuant to the warrant for his arrest regarding the bank robbery. However, Pickett fled the stop in his vehicle, resulting in it being semi-submerged in a body of water. This footage shows the perspective of five different officers responding to the incident, and the angles from which they trade gunfire with Pickett, who is initially seen threatening suicide. Upon recovering the vehicle, forensics noted that there were “over a dozen” bullet holes through the windshield.

The officers can be heard pleading with Pickett, but Officer 4’s view at 04:43 offers the most unobstructed view of Pickett firing and the other officers firing in response. As shown, many of the officers try to relocate after the shooting, given the little cover afforded by the palmettos and small trees. Pickett was confirmed dead on-scene.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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