Mom accidentally shoots, kills daughter she thought was intruder, St. Cloud police say

Cops investigate apparent accidental shooting

ST. CLOUD, Fla. – St. Cloud police are investigating an apparent accidental shooting after a homeowner shot her daughter after mistaking her for an intruder.

The shooting was reported in the area of 10th Street late Tuesday night.

"Ambulance, firetrucks, and it was completely taped off," said neighbor John Cento, who watched as emergency crews arrived Tuesday night.

Police said the homeowner was asleep in her bed when she woke up, thought an intruder had come into the house and was quickly approaching her.

The homeowner fired one round at the intruder, who was later identified as her 27-year-old daughter, according to police.

Police said the daughter was taken to Osceola Regional Hospital, where she died. The homeowner was also taken to the hospital.

St. Cloud police released the names of the victim, her mother and father, who is an undercover officer with the department; however, News 6 is respecting the wishes of the department, which has asked to withhold the names to protect the family from criminals the officer helped bust.

Police said the officer was not involved in the shooting, but he was involved in calling 911 and getting help to the scene.

Police said the investigation is ongoing and at this time, the homeowner's story is consistent with physical evidence.

The investigation will be forwarded to the State Attorney's Office for review.​


About the Authors

Erik Sandoval joined the News 6 team as a reporter in May 2013 and became an Investigator in 2020. During his time at News 6, Erik has covered several major stories, including the 2016 Presidential campaign. He was also one of the first reporters live on the air at the Pulse Nightclub shooting.