Deputies: Man shoots deputy at Old Town nightclub

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — A 28-year-old man shot a deputy early Sunday at a nightclub at Old Town USA, the Osceola County Sheriff's Office said.

Deputies who were patrolling the popular shopping and dining district near Kissimmee were sent to the Sun on the Beach nightclub shortly before 1:45 a.m. to help break up a fight, Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Twis Lizasuain said.

Once all of the people involved in the fight had been separated, Deputy John Rios followed Angel Manual Lopez out of the bar after overhearing that he was armed, Lizasuain said.

"As Deputy Rios was attempting to detain Lopez, a brief struggle ensued," she said. "And Lopez discharged his weapon, which struck the deputy in his leg."

Rios was taken to a nearby hospital with injuries that weren't life-threatening. He has since been released.

Lizasuain said Rios didn't fire his gun. %

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Lopez was booked into the Osceola County Jail on the following charges: attempted murder, aggravated assault, carrying a concealed firearm, discharging a firearm in public, use of a firearm under the influence of alcohol, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony and resisting without violence.

Lopez, who deputies described as a documented gang member with an extensive criminal history, could face additional charges. %

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The shooting continues to be investigated.

No other details were given.

Cox Media Group