A suicidal man told dispatchers he was armed. A Tampa police officer shot and wounded the man.

TAMPA – A police officer shot and wounded a suspect early this morning (Jan. 12) after the man charged at him with a knife, according to the Tampa Police Department.

The names of the officer and man were not released. No officers were hurt. The man, who was suicidal, was taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital with non-life-threatening wounds.

The incident happened about 1:49 a.m. in the 2500 block of W Kenmore Avenue.

Police said officers were sent to the address after a suicidal man called for help and told the dispatcher, “I apologize to the cop that has to shoot me.”

When police arrived, the man, who was armed with a knife, charged at the officer. The officer used his electronic control device, but the man continued to charge, police said.

The officer tried to retreat and, in fear for his life, shot at the suspect, hitting him. Police said the man dropped the knife, but continued to advance toward the officer.

Back up officers arrived and an electronic control device was successful at stopping the man, who was then taken into custody.

Tampa Police | Officer-Involved Shooting | Tampabay News

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