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Two deputies killed after suspect fires through restaurant window in Gilchrist County, Florida, authorities say

WTLV- and WJXX-TV, Jacksonville
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JACKSONVILLE — Two sheriff's deputies were shot and killed inside a Florida restaurant Thursday after a suspect walked up to the business and fired at them through the window, authorities say.

According to the Gilchrist County Sheriff Bobby Schultz, the incident occurred around 3 p.m. at the Ace China Restaurant in Trenton. When deputies arrived at the scene, they found the deputies dead, along with the suspected shooter, who died outside of the business.

The Sheriff's Office identified the two deputies as Sgt. Noel Ramirez, 30, and deputy Taylor Lindsey, 25.

“Sergeant Ramirez and Deputy Lindsey were the best of the best,” Schultz said. “They were men of integrity, men of loyalty. They were God-fearing, and they loved what they did, and we are very proud of them.”

Ramirez was a 7-year veteran of the force while Lindsey served for 3 years, Schultz said.

The shooter’s name wasn’t immediately released. Schultz wouldn’t say how the suspect died. Authorities say there’s no apparent motive for the shooting.

Trenton is about 30 miles west of Gainesville.

The Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Office said on Twitter that the department has “suffered a terrible tragedy.” The tweet says residents should stay away from an area of Trenton. That message also says no suspects are at large.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Alachua County Sheriff's Office and the Levy County Sheriff's Office are on their way to the area to assist with the investigation.

President Trump, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office and Gov. Rick Scott also released a statement on Twitter, expressing their condolences.

Contributing: The Associated Press

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