( July 18, 2008: Fort Myers, FL ) - With great sadness the Fort Myers Police Department announces the death of Officer Andrew Widman (d.o.b. 5-11-78) who was shot killed in the line of duty this morning.

Just before 2:00 a.m. Officer Widman was patrolling the downtown area as the nightclubs began to close. Officer Widman encountered a domestic disturbance between a man and his girlfriend. Witnesses who saw the domestic dispute say the man became enraged and threats were made to responding officers. Moments later he shot Officer Widman at close range in the face. Officer Widman never drew his weapon.

Several other officers began to chase the perpetrator as he fled the scene. According to witnesses the perpetrator was actively shooting at the officers. The officers were forced to take cover and return fire. The perpetrator died on scene.

The Fort Myers Police Department is conducting an investigation that will be turned over to the Office of the State Attorney. Per policy officer involved shootings require officers to be placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. The officers placed on leave are: Officer Alain Gagnon, Officer B.J. Ades, Officer Wolfgang Daniel and Officer Mike Perry.

Officer Widman was hired April 12, 2007. He leaves behind a wife and three children. The family requested the media respect their privacy during this difficult time.

*The perpetrator’s name will be released upon official notification of next of kin.