Sarasota County deputies shoot armed man during family disturbance at Desoto Acres home: SCSO

DESOTO ACRES, Fla. - A deputy-involved shooting is under investigation in Desoto Acres after a man pulled a gun from his waistband and was shot by deputies Thursday evening following a reported family disturbance, according to the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office.

What we know:

Deputies say the incident began around 6 p.m. when a 911 call came in reporting a family disturbance involving a weapon at a home in the 5100 block of 59th street.

According to SCSO, four deputies responded to the scene when a man later identified as Robert Boast, 55, was seen with a weapon.

Investigators say the weapon was pulled from Boast’s waistband during the encounter.

Deputies gave verbal commands, but officials say Boast refused to listen.

At that point, two deputies fired several shots, hitting Boast, SCSO said.

Boast was taken to a nearby hospital, where he is listed in critical but stable condition, according to SCSO.

The sheriff’s office says the situation stemmed from a family disturbance involving people in the main residence on the property. Boast reportedly lives on the same property, behind the main home.

What we don't know:

The exact number of shots fired has not yet been confirmed. Deputies have not said whether Boast fired any shots during the incident. Any additional details about the nature of the family dispute have not been released at this time.

What's next:

Detectives are working to get a search warrant to further investigate the home, SCSO said.

Per standard protocol, the four deputies involved have been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Criminal Investigation Section at 941-861-4900, or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers at 941-366-TIPS (8477) or online here.