On Wednesday afternoon, a routine disturbance call turned into a tragic and heartbreaking event when Walton County Sheriff’s Deputy Will May was fatally shot while responding to an incident at a Dollar General store. The shooting, which occurred around 2:00 p.m., has left his family, colleagues, and the entire Walton County community in mourning, as they grapple with the loss of a dedicated public servant and beloved family man.
The disturbance call, initially believed to be a routine matter, quickly escalated into violence. Deputy May, 38 years old, arrived at the store to investigate reports of a disturbance, but the situation took a turn for the worse. Authorities have not yet disclosed full details regarding what led to the gunfire, but the fact that a routine call turned deadly has shocked everyone involved. After being critically wounded, Deputy May was rushed to North Okaloosa Medical Center, where doctors fought tirelessly to save his life. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries at 7:10 p.m., leaving behind a devastated family, a grieving law enforcement community, and a shaken town that had just witnessed an unthinkable act of violence.
Deputy William “Will” May was more than just a law enforcement officer. He was a second-generation officer who had dedicated nearly a decade to serving the Walton County Sheriff’s Office. He began his career in 2014 as a communications officer and transitioned to a sworn deputy in 2019. By 2023, he had earned the esteemed position of Field Training Officer, mentoring new deputies and instilling in them the same dedication and commitment to public service that he embodied. Throughout his career, Deputy May was known for his leadership, his ability to mentor others, and his unwavering dedication to the safety of his community. He was respected within the department, and his colleagues admired him for his hard work and the genuine care he showed for the people he served.
While Deputy May was respected professionally, his greatest role was that of a husband and father. He leaves behind a wife and two teenage children, who now must cope with the overwhelming loss of a father and husband who was taken from them far too soon. For his family, the pain of his death is compounded by the brutality of the way he died—protecting his community and doing his duty. His wife and children must now navigate life without him, facing an unimaginable reality of grief and loss. The Walton County Sheriff’s Office, along with the wider law enforcement community, has expressed deep sorrow at his passing, with Sheriff Mike Adkinson offering heartfelt condolences. “Will May was not just a deputy; he was a mentor, a protector, and a friend. His sacrifice will never be forgotten,” said Sheriff Adkinson, underscoring the immense loss felt by his department.
As authorities continue their investigation into the shooting, details about the shooter have not yet been disclosed. At the time of writing, it remains unclear whether an arrest has been made or if the suspect remains at large. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is assisting the Walton County Sheriff’s Office with the investigation. The authorities are working tirelessly to gather evidence and piece together the events that led to Deputy May’s tragic death. As the investigation unfolds, it is likely that more details will be released to the public, shedding light on the circumstances of the fatal encounter. Meanwhile, the focus remains on finding justice for Deputy May and his grieving family.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the community of Walton County has rallied to honor Deputy May’s memory. An outpouring of support flooded social media as law enforcement agencies, local officials, and residents offered condolences and prayers for his family. Blue ribbons were tied around trees outside the sheriff’s office as a symbol of solidarity, and a procession of law enforcement vehicles escorted May’s body from the hospital, an emotional tribute to a fallen hero. A candlelight vigil is being planned to honor Deputy May’s service, where community members can come together to reflect on his life and the legacy he leaves behind.
Governor Ron DeSantis also issued a statement, expressing his condolences to May’s family and calling his sacrifice “a solemn reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face daily.” His words echoed the sentiment shared by many in the law enforcement community, as they recognize the risks their officers face every time they respond to a call. Deputy May’s death serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers, who put their lives on the line every day to protect others.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, the focus now turns to honoring Deputy May’s life and the sacrifice he made in the line of duty. Plans for his funeral are being organized, with law enforcement officers from across Florida and beyond expected to pay their respects. Deputy May’s death is a devastating blow to his family, his colleagues, and his community, but it is also an opportunity for all who knew him to remember his commitment to public service, his courage, and his willingness to protect and serve others.
In the coming days, funeral arrangements for Deputy Will May will be announced. His family and law enforcement colleagues will gather to say their final goodbyes, but they will also celebrate his life, his service, and the difference he made in the lives of others. As a dedicated public servant, Deputy May gave his life protecting his community. His courage, commitment, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
For those wishing to support Deputy May’s family during this difficult time, the Walton County Sheriff’s Office has set up a fund to help with financial needs. Donations can be made through the sheriff’s office website, providing a way for the community to offer financial relief and show their support for the family as they navigate this painful journey. Additionally, anyone with information regarding the shooting is urged to contact the Walton County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.
Deputy Will May gave his life in service to others. His death is a tragic reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face daily and the sacrifices they make to protect their communities. His family, colleagues, and the entire Walton County community are left to mourn his loss, but his legacy of bravery and service will live on. Deputy May’s sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him to carry forward the values of service, dedication, and courage that he embodied throughout his life.
