Authorities are investigating after a Broward Sheriff's Office deputy was found dead in Homestead Tuesday morning.
The discovery was made in the area of Southwest 130th Avenue and Southwest 320th Street by a passerby who called 911 around 6:30 a.m. to report that an officer was down, Miami-Dade Police officials said.
Officers arrived and found a marked BSO vehicle and the deputy laying next to it. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue responded and pronounced the deputy dead at the scene.
Aerial footage from Chopper 6 showed the deputy's body covered by a yellow tarp on the ground of a gravel road next to the BSO vehicle.
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The deputy's identity hasn't been released. Sources told NBC6 he died by suicide.
Video also showed a pickup truck nearby and two people sitting on the side of the road. It is unclear how those people may be connected to the scene, if at all.
Multiple Miami-Dade Police officers were also at the scene. Homicide detectives are investigating the death and the medical examiner will determine the manner and cause of death, officials said.
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A source tells NBC 6 that there is no wider threat to the community. Police confirmed that detectives aren't searching for any subjects.
In a statement, BSO said the deputy had been with the agency for 16 years and was off duty at the time of his death.
"This is a challenging day for our agency as we try to help each other through the unexpected loss of one of our deputies. Our primary concern is supporting the deputy’s family and co-workers, ensuring they have the resources and care they need to process and grieve this tragedy," the BSO statement read. "If you are struggling, or know anyone who is suffering through their own battle with mental health, know that you are not alone, and there is help available."
This is a developing story. Refresh for updates.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or chat live at 988lifeline.org. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional support.
