Hillsborough deputy fires weapon while being dragged by felony suspect, later arrested by TPD

TAMPA - A Hillsborough County deputy opened fire early Thursday when a felony suspect tried to flee in a truck, dragging the deputy. Tampa police captured the suspect a short time later.

Deputy Bryon Beasley was on patrol behind a Ford F150 around 1:15 a.m. and ran a routine license tag check.  A report came back that the owner was David Solano, who had four outstanding felony warrants for his arrest.

According to a sheriff's statement, Solano pulled into a gas station parking lot at Orient Road and Broadway Avenue and got out of the truck.

Deputy Beasley then called out to Solano, who replied that he was going back to his truck to get his wallet and ID.

When Deputy Beasley approached the truck, he heard the engine starting. The deputy reached inside the truck to turn off the ignition and Solano took off, dragging the deputy.   Beasley then fired his service weapon into the side of the truck.

Deputy Beasley was not injured and Solano fled the scene.

Tampa police officers later found Solano's truck parked on 59th Street. Solano was located and captured after a short foot pursuit. One officer injured his leg and Solano complained of neck pain.

Both were taken to Tampa General Hospital.

Once medically cleared, Solano will be booked into the Hillsborough County Jail and faces additional charges.

Because he fired his weapon, Deputy Beasley will be placed on paid administrative leave with pay which is routine Sheriff's Office policy.