A tense hostage situation at a Bank of America branch in Fort Myers, Florida, ended dramatically when a SWAT sniper fatally shot the suspect through a computer monitor. The incident occurred on Tuesday, involving Sterling Ramon Alavache, 36, who took two people hostage and claimed to have a bomb.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office responded to the robbery call around 11 a.m. Officers, including FBI agents and SWAT team members, were dispatched to the scene, employing drones, electronic surveillance, and a robot dog to manage the crisis. Sheriff Carmine Marceno led the negotiations, attempting to persuade Alavache to surrender peacefully.
Lee County Sheriff's Department sniper executes a perfect shot through a computer monitor, straight to the brain of a violent bank robber who took two Bank of America employees hostage in Fort Meyers, FL. pic.twitter.com/9NYeI9BLJ1
— Police Body Cams on 𝕏 (@XBodyCams) June 10, 2024
As negotiations continued, Alavache escalated the situation by holding a knife to one of the hostages' throats. Sheriff Marceno explained that the suspect's presentation of deadly force prompted the sniper to take action. "When he presented deadly force like that, our SWAT sniper shot and killed the suspect," Marceno stated, emphasizing the necessity to protect the hostages' lives.
The hostage ordeal, which took place within the Bell Tower complex, had law enforcement and emergency services on high alert. The sniper's decisive shot ensured the safety of both hostages, who were unharmed during the incident. The operation underscored the SWAT team's training and readiness for worst-case scenarios, according to Sheriff Marceno.
In Southwest Florida a Police Sniper took a head shot thru a computer screen at a bank when a hostage situation and heist quickly developed.
The Sniper struck the suspect in the forehead quickly ending the standoff.
Florida +1, Bad Guy -1. pic.twitter.com/vO0M2iaGrX
— Behind The News Show (@BehindNewsShow) June 10, 2024
Alavache, a convicted felon with a history of drug trafficking, aggravated assault, and carrying a concealed firearm, was confirmed as the deceased suspect by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. His criminal background added gravity to the hostage situation, further justifying the sniper’s intervention.
The incident was captured on police body cameras, with footage showing the negotiation efforts and the critical moment of intervention. This transparency is part of the ongoing investigation into the shooting, as the sniper involved has been placed on administrative leave, a standard procedure following such events.
Sheriff Marceno expressed relief that no innocent lives were lost and highlighted the importance of vigilance and preparedness in law enforcement. "It's a sad day when innocent lives are placed in jeopardy due to the senseless acts of others," he remarked, appreciating the successful resolution of the crisis without additional casualties.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face and the split-second decisions they must make to protect lives. The community of Fort Myers is left reflecting on the harrowing event and the bravery of the officers involved.
All done good. Saved tax payers an court hearing/trial/and jail cost. You go swat! Kill them all.