Suspected gunman who fired more than 200 rounds at Florida condo units killed by sniper’s bullet, sheriff says

A tragic incident unfolded in Florida on Thursday as a Connecticut man, Joseph DiFusco, was shot and killed by a sheriff’s sniper after he allegedly fired over 200 rounds at neighboring homes and authorities. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that DiFusco was the sole casualty in the incident, with no other individuals being harmed.

Sheriff Mike Chitwood revealed that DiFusco, a 56-year-old snowbird staying at an Airbnb, may have brought firearms from out of state. The authorities were alerted to the situation when DiFusco reported suicidal thoughts in the early hours of the morning but declined medical transport. However, the situation escalated when DiFusco started firing at neighboring units and law enforcement officers just two hours later.

Chitwood described the harrowing scene, stating, “Probably fired over 200 rounds. [You could] hear bullets whizzing over our heads, and we were 100 yards back.” This was not the first time deputies had visited the Kingston Shores condominium complex, indicating a history of disturbances involving DiFusco.

Despite efforts to negotiate with DiFusco, he remained uncooperative and heavily armed, leading to the decision to deploy a sniper. Residents in the area were evacuated, with DiFusco’s family expressing concerns for their safety prior to the incident. Chitwood revealed that the family had been so fearful of DiFusco that they resorted to sleeping in a car.

The sheriff also mentioned that DiFusco had stopped taking his medication and had been sleep-deprived for several days, potentially contributing to his erratic behavior. Images released by the sheriff’s office depicted the exterior walls of the condo complex riddled with bullet holes, showcasing the intensity of the situation that lasted for more than five hours.

DiFusco had barricaded himself in his rental unit and was armed with at least three firearms, posing a significant threat to those in the vicinity. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the potential dangers associated with untreated conditions.