Staff Reports
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FLDE) cleared a Columbia County Sheriff’s deputy involved in a fatal shooting that occurred on Sept. 8 in Lake City.
According to a Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) release, the FDLE was requested to conduct an independent investigation regarding a domestic disturbance call on SE Patio Glen.
At 4 p.m. on Sept. 8, law enforcement was dispatched to SE Patio Glen where CCSO deputy Brian Rix, a 28-year veteran assigned to the School Resource Unit, was on his way home. Rix was the first unit to arrive on scene and, when he exited his patrol car, the deputy noticed the male suspect, 32-year-old Quentin Hill, holding the female victim, 32-year-old Laquisha Harper, in a choke hold in the front yard.
When Rix confronted Hill, Hill produced a firearm and shot Harper. Rix then fired three shots at Hill, hitting him all three times and killing the suspect.
Harper died from her injuries on scene.
Rix, according to policy, was placed on administrated leave and the FDLE was requested to conduct an independent investigation. According to the release, while there are still some administrative processes that need to be completed, the FDLE determined that Rix acted lawfully in accordance with statute and agency policy. Rix was returned to full duty on Sept. 15.
“While we would have hoped for a different outcome, I am proud that Deputy Rix relied on his training and experience to prevent further loss of life,” said Columbia County Sheriff Mark Hunter in the press release. “We continue to pray for everyone who has been affected by this tragedy.”