A Port St. Lucie police sergeant, Erik LeVasseur, faces a challenging recovery after being shot twice in the face during a gunfight that ensued from a mental health-related neighbor dispute. Responding officers arrived on scene to find 32-year-old Frankie Salvatore Riccio armed with an AK-47-type rifle, leading to a rapid exchange of gunfire. Though two officers among the responding team were trainees, no other injuries were reported, as Riccio ultimately succumbed to his injuries on scene when officers returned fire.
Authorities are currently investigating Riccio’s mental health history and the circumstances that led to the confrontation. The initial call to police came from Riccio’s mother, who expressed concerns about her son’s behavior and potential access to firearms. Law enforcement has assured the public there is no ongoing threat, but the Florida Department of Law Enforcement has been notified to conduct an independent investigation, a standard procedure for officer-involved shootings.
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