Putnam County, FL – A Palatka hotel was evacuated Tuesday evening after deputies responded to reports of an armed man inside a room, leading to a standoff that ended peacefully with the suspect’s arrest.
According to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, 25-year-old William Bradley was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a weapon, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and resisting an officer without violence following the incident on Tuesday night.
Investigators say the victim contacted the Palatka Police Department after leaving the hotel, reporting that Bradley had stayed in the room with her earlier that evening. The victim alleged Bradley took her firearm while she was sleeping and later pointed the weapon at her stomach during a confrontation. She left the hotel and contacted law enforcement shortly afterward.
When deputies arrived at the hotel, an employee informed officers that Bradley had attempted to book additional nights and disclosed he was armed. Deputies attempted to make contact, prompting the response of the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team and negotiation unit.
Due to reported threats made by Bradley, the hotel was evacuated as a precaution. Putnam County Fire Rescue and the Palatka Fire Department also responded, disconnecting the fire suppression system to allow SWAT to safely breach the door if needed.
Authorities say negotiators were able to reach Bradley by phone and persuade him to surrender without further incident. A firearm was recovered from inside the hotel room.
Bradley was taken to the Palatka Police Department for questioning before being transported to the Putnam County Jail. Officials say upon arrival at the jail, Bradley allegedly became violent, striking a corrections deputy twice on the hand and biting another deputy. Possible additional charges are pending.
Bradley is currently being held without bond.
The sheriff’s office credited the coordinated response between local police, fire rescue, and SWAT teams for resolving the situation safely.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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