Michael Lee Wright dies in fatal Jacksonville police shooting
Michael Lee Wright dies in fatal Jacksonville police shooting
Fatal Jacksonville police shooting death of Michael Lee Wright – Obituary
Michael Lee Wright, 39, was fatally shot by a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office officer on Sunday after a violent encounter at a mobile home park on the city’s Westside. According to police, Wright attacked his girlfriend and then charged at the officer’s vehicle at Normandy Estates Mobile Home Park.
Authorities said Wright’s girlfriend had returned to the home Sunday morning after staying away the night before. Upon her arrival, Wright reportedly confronted her aggressively, throwing objects at her vehicle. She left the scene and contacted law enforcement for assistance.
Officer Patrick Burke, a five-year veteran of the department, accompanied the woman back to the residence. As they approached, Wright allegedly began striking the officer’s vehicle, eventually climbing onto its hood. Burke reversed to avoid further escalation, but Wright continued his attack and was pushed into a yard when the officer drove forward.
Burke exited the vehicle with his weapon drawn as Wright advanced with unidentified items in his hands. Despite repeated commands to stop, Wright charged at the officer while yelling, “Go ahead and kill me.” Burke opened fire, striking Wright.
After securing the scene, Burke provided medical assistance until emergency crews arrived. Wright was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Police noted that Wright had a history of drug issues, had been Baker Acted three years ago, and had reportedly overdosed within the past week. He had also texted his girlfriend earlier, saying, “I’m going to die today.”
The incident marks the eighth officer-involved shooting for the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office in 2025. The State Attorney’s Office is currently reviewing the case.
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