NEW PORT RICHEY, FL – In the early hours of Wednesday morning, a tense encounter unfolded on Little Road in New Port Richey, leading to a deputy-involved shooting. The incident began when Scott Humans, 38, allegedly attempted to break into a local gun store, AJ Sporting Goods, using an unconventional tool—a large orange road construction sign.
Security footage captured Humans ramming the sign into the store’s entrance twice, drawing the attention of a bystander at a nearby gas station. When confronted, Humans reportedly declared his intent to break into the gun store. The situation quickly escalated as Pasco County deputies arrived on the scene, about half a mile north of the attempted break-in.
Sheriff Chris Nocco detailed the sequence of events, explaining that deputies initially tried to de-escalate the confrontation. They repeatedly offered assistance to Humans, who appeared distressed and unresponsive to their pleas. Despite their efforts, the situation took a perilous turn when Humans pulled out a knife and charged at the deputies at full speed.
In a bid to protect themselves and the surrounding community, three deputies discharged their firearms. The incident occurred in one of the southbound lanes of Little Road during the busy morning rush hour, just outside a shared parking lot for Habitat for Humanity and a local law office. Witnesses in nearby vehicles were kept at a safe distance by law enforcement.
Fortunately, no bystanders were reported injured during the ordeal. However, Humans sustained injuries and was rushed to the hospital for surgery. As of the latest updates, he faces charges of attempted burglary and aggravated assault on law enforcement officers.
Sheriff Nocco emphasized the deputies’ commitment to safeguarding the community, highlighting that Humans had a history of mental health issues and had previously expressed intent to harm himself and others. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces when dealing with individuals in crisis, balancing the need for public safety with the complexities of mental health.
The community is left reflecting on the importance of mental health resources and the role they play in preventing such incidents. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.