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NewsWFLA News TampaAugust 3, 2026Hillsborough

Polk County deputies fatally shoot suspect after confrontation at Lakeland shopping center

Polk County deputies shot and killed 46-year-old Larry Renaldo Riles on Monday morning after he allegedly pulled a stolen handgun during a confrontation at a Lakeland shopping center. The incident began when deputies attempted to arrest Riles for a probation violation and ended after he struck a patrol vehicle and refused commands to exit his car.

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Why It Matters

The incident resulted in a fatal officer-involved shooting and an ongoing investigation by the Officer Involved Deadly Incident Task Force, impacting local public safety operations in Lakeland.

Key Facts

  • Larry Renaldo Riles, 46, was killed by Polk County deputies on Monday morning.
  • The suspect was wanted for a probation violation and was driving a vehicle reported as stolen.
  • Deputies used a license plate reader to locate the suspect at the Wabash shopping center.
  • The suspect attempted to evade arrest by backing into a parking space and later striking a patrol vehicle.
  • Deputies attempted to use a taser on the suspect before the shooting occurred.
  • The suspect was found in possession of a semi-automatic handgun stolen on June 24.
  • The suspect had a criminal history including a 2007 arrest for aggravated battery and a 2025 arrest for grand theft.
  • The suspect was released from custody on April 14 following a March 20 arrest for probation violation.
  • The 10th Judicial Circuit Officer Involved Deadly Incident Task Force is conducting an investigation into the shooting.

Who's Mentioned

personLisa Jones“A witness and Subway employee present during the shooting.”organization10th Judicial Circuit Officer Involved Deadly Incident Task Force“The body currently investigating the shooting.”personGrady Judd“Polk County Sheriff who provided details on the incident.”organizationUber“The company that previously employed the suspect.”personLarry Renaldo Riles“The suspect who was fatally shot by deputies.”locationWabash shopping center“The site of the shooting in Lakeland, Florida.”organizationPolk County Sheriff's Office“The law enforcement agency involved in the shooting.”