Jacksonville, Florida — On July 9, 2025, at approximately 8:10 a.m., 20-year-old Jamari Akins entered a business on Soutel Drive near Norfolk Boulevard wearing a mask and concealing a firearm beneath his clothing. Shortly after entering, Akins brandished the weapon and threatened to shoot the cashier if she did not hand over money. The cashier complied, giving him approximately $100 in cash.

Before handing over the money, however, the cashier was able to discreetly alert emergency services. As Akins fled the scene, Officers Mercado and Swinton arrived and spotted a man matching the suspect’s description running along Norfolk Boulevard. Officer Mercado pursued Akins—first in his patrol vehicle and then on foot.

During the chase, Akins was seen discarding loose cash from his pockets. Officer Mercado caught up with him and tackled him to the ground. While struggling on the ground, Akins rolled to his side, drew a handgun, and shot Officer Mercado in the thigh.

In response, Officer Mercado returned fire, striking Akins twice. Despite his injury, the officer immediately called for backup and applied a tourniquet to his leg while awaiting help.

Paramedics and additional officers arrived swiftly. Officer Mercado and Akins were transported to the hospital, where Akins was later pronounced dead. Officer Mercado was treated and released the same day.

Authorities confirmed that Akins had a prior criminal record and had recently been released from jail in May. An investigation into the incident is ongoing.