A man shot and killed Sunday during a pursuit which began at the embattled Sabal Trail Pipeline in Marion County, has been identified.
The man has been identified as James Leroy Marker, 66, of Chokoloskee.Â
Marion County sheriff’s deputies were dispatched at about 9 a.m. to a call regarding a man using a high-powered rifle to shoot at the Sabal Pipeline and equipment. As deputies were responding to the Sabal Pipeline located on Highway 200 in Dunnellon, the suspect fled into Citrus County.
Citrus County sheriff’s deputies and Florida Highway Patrol then located the suspect’s vehicle and a pursuit was initiated. The suspect was involved in a crash near Floral City Park, at which time he brandished a weapon at deputies and was subsequently shot and killed. At this time, the identity of the suspect is being withheld pending next of kin notification.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement will be investigating the shooting. No law enforcement personnel or citizens were injured as a result of this incident, according to a statement from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
Construction of the Sabal Trail pipeline has inspired protests by those who believe it is a threat to the environment. Last week, two protesters were arrested in Marion County after crawling into the pipeline. The 515-mile, $3.2 billion project is planned to be in service by summer 2017.Â
