by Lake Butler, Florida — A domestic dispute in rural North Florida turned deadly Tuesday afternoon when a man allegedly shot and killed his ex-girlfriend and her friend before fleeing the scene and later taking his own life following a high-speed pursuit on Interstate 75, authorities said.
The incident unfolded around 4:30 p.m. in the Providence area of Union County, according to the Union County Sheriff’s Office.
Two Women Found Shot at Scene
Deputies responding to reports of gunfire discovered two adult women deceased, both suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Investigators later identified the suspect as 42-year-old Jason Holton.
Authorities said the victims included Holton’s former girlfriend, who was in the process of moving out of their shared residence, and a female friend who was helping her relocate.
Investigators stated the couple had been in a relationship for approximately 13 years. Family members of both the suspect and the victims were reportedly present at the scene when the shooting occurred.
Suspect Flees, Statewide Alert Issued
After the shooting, Holton allegedly fled in a black four-door 2020 Ford F-150, prompting law enforcement to issue a statewide alert.
While deputies remained at the crime scene assisting victims and collecting witness statements, investigators were able to make phone contact with the suspect, officials said.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement was requested to assist with the double homicide investigation.
High-Speed Pursuit on Interstate 75
Holton was later spotted traveling southbound on Interstate 75 by deputies with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and troopers with the Florida Highway Patrol.
When troopers attempted a traffic stop, the driver allegedly refused to pull over and sped away, leading to a pursuit on the interstate.
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Due to the violent nature of the alleged crimes and the suspect’s high rate of speed, troopers conducted a Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuver, which brought the vehicle to a stop on the west shoulder of I-75.
Suspect Found Dead Inside Vehicle
Law enforcement agencies established a perimeter and repeatedly ordered the suspect to exit the truck. Multiple specialized units were deployed, including:
- SWAT teams
- Aviation support
- Drone units
- Negotiations response teams
After receiving no response for an extended period, officers approached the vehicle using tactical equipment and found Holton dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said. He was the only person inside the truck.
Law Enforcement Responds
Union County Sheriff Brad Whitehead issued a statement expressing condolences:
“Our prayers are with all the families of those involved in this tragic incident affecting our community. Thank you for the tremendous efforts of so many great law enforcement agencies that assisted us with this investigation.”
The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office also praised the coordinated response, noting that deputies and troopers worked together to prevent further harm and ensure public safety.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public, and the investigation into the double homicide and pursuit remains active.
What are your thoughts on how law enforcement handled this rapidly evolving situation? Share in the comments.
