PALM COAST, Fla. — A potentially deadly situation was safely resolved after Flagler County deputies spent hours negotiating with an armed, suicidal man, authorities said.
The incident began around 10 a.m. on March 30, 2026, when the Flagler County Emergency Communications Center received a report that a man was violating a domestic violence no-contact order and was parked outside a residence on Burning Ember Lane.
A deputy located the man, identified as 22-year-old Isaac Lewis, in his vehicle. When the deputy attempted to make contact, Lewis fled, nearly striking the deputy. He later returned to the residence, exited his vehicle, and held a handgun to his head, threatening to take his own life.
Recognizing both a violent felony and a mental health crisis, deputies began communicating with Lewis as the Sheriff’s Office Crisis Negotiation Team and SWAT responded.
Deputy First Class Bryan Carter, a trained crisis negotiator, established contact and spent more than two hours speaking with Lewis in person, over the phone, and via FaceTime to build rapport.
When Lewis’ phone battery died, SWAT deployed a robot to deliver a replacement device to safely restore communication. Carter continued negotiations from inside an armored vehicle, maintaining visual contact while ensuring safety.
Authorities said additional support came from the Real Time Crime Center, where analysts monitored live feeds from body cameras and drones to assist deputies on the ground.
Just before 2 p.m., Lewis removed the magazine from his firearm, cleared the chamber, and placed the weapon on the ground. Deputies then took him into custody without further incident.
“Deputy First Class Carter, our Crisis Negotiation and SWAT teams, and our analysts in the Real Time Crime Center worked together to save a life today,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “I am incredibly proud of how they de-escalated and safely resolved a very dangerous armed situation.”
Lewis was charged with resisting arrest without violence, aggravated stalking, and fleeing and eluding. He was first taken to a local hospital for medical clearance before being transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where he is being held without bond and will have access to mental health services.
Sheriff Staly said the agency remains committed to both public safety and providing resources for individuals in crisis.
Deputy Carter, who joined the sheriff’s office in 2018, has served on the Crisis Negotiation Team since 2021 and previously served in the United States Marine Corps.
Sheriff Staly and FCSO remind residents that there are numerous resources available in Flagler County for those struggling with mental health, and help is always available for those who need it. Get help by contacting Flagler Cares at 386-319-9483 or contacting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org.