A 65-year-old man who was allegedly hallucinating was arrested by members of the Altamonte Springs Police Department after he fired shots through his condominium door and windows at responding officers.
The incident took place on the evening of Friday, February 23, according to a statement issued by ASPD.
Officers responded to the area of Escondido Condominiums at around 11:08 P.M. in response to a man, later identified as Benjamin Ferris, shooting through the windows and doors of his apartment.
The caller, Ferris’s wife, told police that Ferris was hallucinating and believed that unknown individuals were outside and inside of his residence. She allegedly sought refuge in the bathroom of the residence and maintained contact with 911, according to authorities.
Upon arrival, officers positioned themselves outside of the third-floor condo. Within seconds of positioning themselves, Ferris fired a shot that narrowly missed one of the officers.
Video shows one of the bullets hitting the wall next to a stairwell where they were positioned.
Another bullet caused a window to shatter, resulting in minor injuries to a different officer due to broken glass.
After a brief standoff in which officers fired no shots, Ferris was persuaded to exit the apartment without a weapon.
Ferris was taken into custody and has been charged with attempted homicide of a law enforcement officer. He is currently incarcerated at the Seminole County Jail.
According to authorities, a community engagement officer has been assigned to Ferris to coordinate future mental healthcare.
Additionally, authorities have sought a risk protection order against Ferris, which will restrict his access to firearms in the event of his release.