Ex-Florida deputy arrested for manslaughter after accidentally shooting girlfriend while practicing with unloaded gun

A former Florida sheriff’s deputy, Leslie Boileau, was arrested for manslaughter after accidentally shooting his girlfriend at their home in Ocala. Boileau called 911 to report the shooting, stating it was accidental as they were handling and dry-firing firearms. He told police they were cleaning their guns when a loaded round was accidentally discharged, resulting in the fatal shooting of his girlfriend. Boileau claimed his girlfriend had asked him to teach her how to use the gun. Physical evidence found at the scene corroborated his account, leading to his arrest. Boileau was a deputy with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office for eight years but was terminated immediately following the shooting. The gun used was not his work firearm. Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken called the incident tragic and offered condolences to the victim’s family. Sheriff Billy Woods expressed heartbreak for the family and friends of the victim, stating that while the actions of one officer do not reflect all law enforcement, they have the support of his office as the investigation continues. The shooting was characterized as a devastating event affecting the entire law enforcement community.

Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com