FL K-9 Deputy Ambushed During Search, Shot 3 Times

Investigators said Cpl. Matt Aitken underwent surgery for gun shot wounds to his neck, leg, and hand.

March 14, 2023

Pinellas County Sheriff Cpl. Matt Aitken was shot three times searching for a car burglary suspect Sunday night.Photo: Pinellas County SO

A Pinellas County, FL, sheriff's deputy is being treated at the hospital after being ambushed and shot three times Sunday night by a fleeing suspect during a burglary call, police said.

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office said Cpl. Matt Aitken and K9 Taco responded to a report of a car burglary. The pair spotted a suspect near a church and began tracking him. A sergeant joined the search, KMPH reports.

Investigators said as the deputies entered a fenced backyard and turned a corner, the suspect, Zion Bostick, opened fire, hitting Aitken three times. The suspect then fired three more times at Sgt. Jake Viano. The sergeant returned fire, killing Bostick.

At a news conference Monday, investigators said Aitken underwent surgery for gun shot wounds to his neck, leg, and hand.

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