Two Florida deputies were intentionally attacked by a suspect who struck them with a speeding car, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office reported in a news conference. The incident occurred on November 9 in a Tampa suburb, and both officers suffered significant leg injuries, requiring surgery.
The attack unfolded after a woman called the sheriff’s office to report her son’s mental health crisis, during which the suspect, 28-year-old Ralph Bouzy, was “kicking in doors throughout the house,” causing his mother to fear for her life.
When two deputies arrived and spotted Bouzy sitting in a running car, they tried to deescalate the situation, but Bouzy refused to cooperate. He put the car in reverse and drove away, only to return at a high speed, pinning the two officers between the suspect’s car and their own.
Following the crash, Bouzy nonchalantly exited his car and walked to his mother’s house, but he was eventually arrested and charged with attempted murder. One of the injured officers may need to have a leg amputated, while the other suffered a “bilateral break” in a leg.
In light of this incident, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers a free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals, and support to people living with mental health conditions and their families. For immediate help in a crisis, individuals can call 1-800-273-8255 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
In summary, the ambush on the two deputies highlights the challenges law enforcement officers face in responding to mental health crises while ensuring their safety. Bouzy’s use of his car as a weapon underscores the need for effective crisis intervention and support services.
