Florida Authorities Search for Armed Suspect Following Fatal Shooting During Dog Attack Intervention

Police are searching for Matthew Lee Pasco after a fatal shooting near a Leesburg homeless camp. The incident began as an intervention in a dog attack.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 18, 2026, 6:24 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Blaze

A Violent Confrontation Near Leesburg Camp

A chaotic sequence of events involving a dog attack and a firearm resulted in a fatality Friday morning near a homeless encampment in Leesburg. Lake County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the scene at approximately 7:20 a.m. following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, emergency responders located a male victim suffering from critical gunshot wounds. The man was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The Triggering Event: An Animal Attack

According to preliminary investigative findings, the incident began when at least one dog began attacking a woman outside the camp. The woman sustained numerous bite wounds during the encounter. A bystander, identified by police as Matthew Lee Pasco, reportedly intervened in the attack by drawing a firearm and firing toward the animal. During this exchange, the owner of the dog allegedly moved into the line of fire to protect the animal and was struck by the rounds intended for the dog.

Search for Armed Person of Interest

Law enforcement officials have launched an intensive manhunt for Pasco, described as a 43-year-old homeless man. Police consider him an armed person of interest and have cautioned the public against approaching him. Investigators noted that Pasco has a distinctive scar on the right side of his face, which may aid in identification. He was last seen fleeing the area on foot immediately after the shooting occurred.