OLD TOWN, FL – A Dixie County Sheriff’s Office deputy is recovering after being shot during an exchange of gunfire with an armed suspect on October 11, 2025.
Deputies responded to reports of shots fired into an occupied building, the Old Town Tavern, in the 3600 block of NE Highway 349 in Old Town. The building was struck by gunfire, but no injuries were reported.
When deputies arrived, the suspect — who was still armed — opened fire on law enforcement, prompting deputies to return fire. During the exchange, Deputy Cody Pope was struck and transported for medical treatment. He remains in stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery.
The suspect, identified as 54-year-old Christopher Thomas Van Ness, was also struck by gunfire. He was taken into custody by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and remains hospitalized.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has issued a capital felony warrant for attempted homicide of a law enforcement officer in connection with the incident.
The Dixie County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to assisting agencies and the community for their prayers and support.
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