Florence, AL – Authorities have identified the suspect killed in an officer-involved shooting in Florence on Tuesday as 26-year-old Louis Michael Hill of Rogersville. The deadly encounter followed a bank robbery and a police pursuit that ended in gunfire.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the incident began when Lauderdale County dispatch received a report of a bank robbery. Officers quickly located Hill’s vehicle and attempted a traffic stop, but he refused to pull over, leading police on a high-speed chase. The pursuit ended when Hill’s car became disabled.
As officers closed in, Hill allegedly attempted to hijack another vehicle occupied by firefighter Grace McClusky. During the struggle, he brandished a firearm and opened fire on police. Officers returned fire, fatally striking Hill at the scene. The intense shootout left a Florence police officer and McClusky wounded.
The injured officer was rushed to Huntsville Hospital, while McClusky was transported to North Alabama Medical Center. Authorities have since confirmed that both are expected to recover from their injuries. Their names have not been released.
Investigators revealed that Hill did not have a significant prior criminal record. However, law enforcement officials continue to examine the circumstances of the incident, including Hill’s possible motives and whether he acted alone. The case remains under investigation by ALEA.
The shooting has sparked discussions on the dangers law enforcement officers and first responders face while serving their communities. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with additional information about Hill or the incident to come forward.
