Authorities said the encounter followed a reckless driving report that began Friday night.
DELAND, Fla. — A Volusia County deputy fatally shot a driver early Saturday outside a Walmart Neighborhood Market after authorities said the driver fled police, ran red lights and tried to speed away again.
The shooting happened around 4:30 a.m. at the store at 955 S. Woodland Blvd., according to the Volusia Sheriff’s Office. The driver was taken to a hospital and pronounced dead. No other injuries were reported.
Authorities said the case began Friday night when DeLand police tried to stop a reckless driver in downtown DeLand. The sheriff’s office said the driver nearly hit a pedestrian, drove without headlights and fled west on State Road 44 while running red lights.
Deputies later found the vehicle in the Walmart parking lot. As they approached, investigators said, the driver accelerated and tried to leave again. The sheriff’s office said one deputy fired through the windshield, striking the driver. The vehicle kept moving a short distance before crashing in the lot.
The parking lot was closed for hours while DeLand police, Volusia deputies and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement worked at the scene. The store later reopened. Witnesses described seeing crime scene tape and patrol vehicles across part of the shopping center.
The sheriff’s office had not released the driver’s name or the deputy’s name as of Sunday. Officials also had not said whether body camera video would be released or whether the driver had a weapon. The shooting remains under investigation.
Florida law enforcement agencies commonly ask FDLE to review deputy-involved shootings. The agency’s findings are usually sent to prosecutors, who decide whether any further legal action is warranted.
As of May 10, investigators had reported no other injuries and no public charges tied to the incident. The next major update is expected when officials release the driver’s identity or more details from the investigation.
Author note: Last updated May 10, 2026.