JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (WFLA) — A Florida police officer has lost his job after accidentally firing his gun at a man during a traffic stop.
On December 13, 2024, a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office officer stopped a vehicle for running a red light. Two other officers responded to the traffic stop, including one identified as M. Cardwell.
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The car’s steering column was damaged and officers suspect the vehicle may have been stolen.
Officials said the driver was cooperative and said he had a gun on his person. Once out of the car, Cardwell went to remove the gun.
When the officer reached for his gun, the gun went off, striking the driver in the leg. Officers lowered the driver to the ground, called for help, and placed a tourniquet on his leg.
JSO’s internal investigation resulted in continuing charges of incompetence against Cardwell.
The agency has begun the process of dismissing the officer.
