Tampa Police Release Body Camera Video of Suspect Opening Fire on Officers

TAMPA, Fla. – The Tampa Police Department has released body camera footage capturing a tense exchange of gunfire between officers and a suspect identified as Matthew Fowler, 23. The incident unfolded on Tuesday morning at the Azula North Apartments, where officers spotted Fowler attempting to enter vehicles and apartments while investigating an unrelated robbery.

According to Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw, officers approached Fowler as he sat on a bicycle along a sidewalk. A scuffle ensued when an officer attempted to handcuff him, leading to Fowler breaking free and brandishing a 9mm handgun with an extended magazine.

In the intense moments that followed, shots were fired as Fowler allegedly opened fire on the officers. Fortunately, no one was injured in the exchange, and Fowler fled the scene only to be apprehended shortly after by police near N. 50th St and Temple Heights Rd. The firearm was later recovered from a nearby dumpster.

Fowler, a convicted felon with a criminal history, now faces multiple charges including attempted first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer, resisting an officer with violence, carrying a concealed firearm, felon in possession of a weapon, tampering with physical evidence, and loitering or prowling.

The officers involved in the shooting, Detective Amy Jones and Corporal Kaitlyn Ford, have been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

The release of the body camera footage sheds light on the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty and underscores the importance of their training and quick thinking in high-pressure situations. Stay connected with FOX 13 Tampa for updates on this developing story.