Jayden Rodriguez
An aggravated assault with a vehicle against a deputy led to school lockdowns this morning.
During school arrival time this morning, a school resource deputy assigned to Columbia High School observed a silver pick-up truck speeding and driving recklessly on campus. The deputy, who was on foot, attempted to gain the driver’s attention to slow the vehicle down. While doing so, the driver of the vehicle swerved the vehicle in the deputy’s direction appearing to attempt to strike the deputy with the vehicle. The deputy was not injured in the incident. The vehicle then left the campus.
Investigative measures identified a juvenile suspect, Jayden Rodriguez (15). An alert was broadcast to other deputies and area law enforcement. A short time later, the suspect vehicle was located at a residence near the intersection of SE Baker Avenue and SE Pennsylvania Street. It was then learned that a disturbance involving a firearm possibly occurred near this same area earlier this morning. This location is directly across from Richardson Sixth Grade Academy. The front door to the residence was open and attempts were made to call out any occupants of the home. After those attempts failed, the CCSO SWAT team was utilized to make entry into the home where Jayden was located and detained without further incident.
Since it was unknown why Jayden would have been on campus at Columbia High School, that school was temporarily placed on limited movement. Likewise, since the suspect residence was located so closely to Richardson Sixth Grade Academy and Melrose Elementary, those schools were placed on lockdown as a precaution. There were no other known threats to these, or any other schools associated with this event.
“I want to thank our deputies as well as the Lake City Police Department, Florida Highway Patrol, and school officials for all working together to resolve this matter so quickly,” said Sheriff Mark Hunter. “Our close partnerships are an invaluable part in keeping our schools and community safe.”
Rodriguez was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer.
Left: Law enforcement at command post Right: Rodriguez is taken into custody
