Lake City Officer Marcus Hardison Shot During Easter Celebration at Annie Mattox Park; Community Rallies Around Injured K-9 Handler
Lake City, FL – April 21, 2025 — A festive Easter Sunday celebration at Annie Mattox Park turned into a terrifying ordeal when a Lake City police officer, identified as Officer Marcus Hardison, was shot while responding to a disturbance during the event. The incident occurred Sunday night and has since ignited urgent discussions about public safety at community gatherings.
Shooting Erupts Amid Holiday Crowd
According to law enforcement, the incident unfolded just after 8:00 p.m. on April 20, as hundreds of families gathered at Annie Mattox Park for the city’s annual Easter event. A physical altercation reportedly broke out among attendees, prompting a police response from both the Lake City Police Department and the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office.
While officers were attempting to restore order, gunfire suddenly erupted from within the crowd. Officer Marcus Hardison, a K-9 handler with the Lake City Police Department, was struck by a bullet in his right arm.
Fellow officers immediately rendered aid, and Hardison was quickly transported to a trauma center in Gainesville, where he underwent treatment. He was reportedly awake, alert, and communicating with medical staff during the emergency transport. As of Monday afternoon, he remains in stable condition and is expected to recover.
Law Enforcement Mobilizes, Investigation Underway
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has assumed control of the investigation. Officials confirmed that three individuals have been detained for questioning, though no names have yet been released and no charges have been filed at this time.
Critically, investigators stated that no law enforcement officers discharged their firearms during the incident. The priority remains determining who fired the weapon and how the shooting was able to occur in a crowded, family-friendly setting.
Police are asking anyone with cellphone footage or firsthand accounts of the altercation and shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Columbia County Crime Stoppers or directly to the Lake City Police Department at (386) 752-4343.
Community Shock and Safety Concerns
The Easter celebration, designed to bring families together for food, games, and community fun, ended with widespread panic. Parents were seen clutching their children and running for cover as shots were fired. Some attendees described the experience as “pure chaos.”
“We were just standing by the playground when we heard the shots,” said Lake City resident Tasha Williams, who attended the event with her children. “People were screaming and scattering. It was terrifying.”
This violent disruption of a family-oriented event has raised serious questions about safety and security at public gatherings. Community leaders are calling for a reevaluation of event planning and law enforcement coordination to prevent such incidents in the future.
Police Department Responds
Lake City Police Chief Gerald Butler addressed the public late Sunday night, commending the swift response of Officer Hardison and other first responders.
“Officer Hardison displayed extraordinary bravery in a dangerous situation,” said Chief Butler. “He ran toward danger to protect the people in that park, and we are grateful that he is expected to recover. This was a senseless act of violence, and we will work tirelessly to bring the perpetrator to justice.”
Chief Butler also emphasized that this incident must serve as a turning point in the way public events are managed, particularly as the city enters the busy spring and summer festival seasons.
Outpouring of Support
As news of the shooting spread, residents and local officials took to social media to share messages of support for Officer Hardison. A vigil is being planned by community members later this week to show solidarity with the police department and those affected by the traumatic event.
Hardison, a veteran officer known for his dedication to public service and canine work, has served in the Lake City Police Department for several years. He is described by colleagues as “committed, courageous, and calm under pressure.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact:
- Lake City Police Department: (386) 752-4343
- Columbia County Crime Stoppers: 1-877-409-TIPS