LEON COUNTY, Florida — Authorities in Leon County are investigating a shooting that unfolded Friday afternoon near Interstate 10 eastbound, Exit 203, leaving two individuals wounded and sparking immediate warnings for the public to avoid the area. The Leon County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that deputies and emergency personnel were dispatched to the scene after receiving multiple reports of gunfire shortly after 3 p.m.

When deputies arrived, they found two victims suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Emergency medical crews provided lifesaving aid before both individuals were transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment. Officials have not yet released information about the victims’ identities or the severity of their injuries, citing the ongoing investigation and the need to notify family members.

The area near Exit 203, typically a busy stretch of roadway for commuters and travelers, was quickly shut down as law enforcement secured the scene. Drivers were diverted to alternate routes while crime scene investigators gathered evidence and documented the incident. Multiple shell casings were reportedly recovered at the scene, suggesting a possible exchange of gunfire.

According to eyewitnesses, chaos erupted as drivers and pedestrians scrambled for safety amid the sound of gunshots. Several motorists reported seeing vehicles speeding away from the area moments after the shots were fired. “It happened so fast,” one witness said. “All I heard were pops, and then people started ducking behind their cars.”

Law enforcement officials have not confirmed whether the shooting stemmed from a road rage altercation, a targeted attack, or a random act of violence. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and dashcam recordings from vehicles that may have captured critical details. The Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone with information or video evidence to contact investigators immediately.

In a statement released late Friday, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office reassured the public that there was no ongoing threat to community safety. “This appears to be an isolated incident,” officials said. “Our detectives are actively pursuing all leads to identify those responsible and ensure accountability.” The department also thanked emergency responders for their quick and coordinated actions in securing the area.

Traffic along Interstate 10 was heavily impacted for several hours as authorities conducted their investigation. By early evening, lanes had partially reopened, but deputies remained stationed nearby to assist with traffic control and preserve the integrity of the scene. Motorists were advised to continue avoiding the exit while cleanup and evidence collection continued.

Residents of Leon County expressed frustration and fear over the rise in violent incidents across the region. “It’s unsettling to think that something like this could happen in broad daylight,” one local resident commented. “You never expect to hear gunfire while driving down the interstate.” Calls for stronger community safety initiatives and law enforcement visibility have since intensified.

As of Saturday morning, detectives were still working to piece together the timeline leading up to the shooting. Forensic teams have been analyzing the recovered evidence, and investigators are interviewing witnesses in hopes of identifying potential suspects. Authorities have not disclosed whether any arrests have been made.

The Leon County Sheriff’s Office continues to lead the investigation with support from the Florida Highway Patrol and other regional agencies. Officials urge anyone with information about the shooting near Interstate 10 and Exit 203 to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously. The department emphasized that community cooperation will be key in ensuring justice and restoring peace following this alarming act of violence.