PBSO Deputy Kills Man Who Tried To Kill Him, Successfully Killed Others.
PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2026 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — A violent crime spree left three dead, including the suspect, and a sheriff’s deputy seriously injured following a series of shootings in Pahokee late Wednesday night. It all started approximately 10:12 p.m. when 44-year-old Charles McCloud Jr. allegedly opened fire at multiple locations across the city. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO), alongside state investigators, says it’s now reconstructing the timeline.
The violence first erupted at 171 Booker Place, where authorities tell BocaNewsNow.com that McCloud shot and killed two adult males. Both victims were pronounced deceased at the scene. Shortly after, a second shooting was reported in the 8700 block of Doveland Drive, where multiple rounds were fired, though no injuries occurred at that location. The suspect then moved to a convenience store at 750 Belle Glade Road, shooting another adult male who is currently expected to survive his injuries.
As a PBSO deputy was securing the Doveland Drive crime scene, investigators say McCloud intentionally drove a black GMC SUV into the deputy, striking him and dragging him approximately 40 feet. After the collision, McCloud exited the vehicle armed with a firearm and attempted to shoot the injured officer. In response, the downed deputy and a second deputy on the scene discharged their service weapons, striking and killing McCloud.
The injured deputy, whose name has not yet been released, was transported to St. Mary’s Medical Center with serious injuries. Records indicate that McCloud was a career criminal with an extensive history in Palm Beach County, including prior charges for armed robbery, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, and escaping from a county facility. His motive for Wednesday’s multi-site attack remains unclear as the investigation continues.
The deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has taken the lead on the shooting investigation, assisted by the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office and the PBSO Violent Crimes Division. Authorities are asking anyone with additional information regarding McCloud’s movements on Wednesday night to come forward.
