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Witness says shooter who killed FHP trooper was angry about towing car

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Posted at 5:32 AM, Feb 06, 2020
and last updated 2020-02-06 10:37:17-05

MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. — Witnesses are shedding light on the frightful moments right before a man opened fire and killed a Florida Highway Patrol trooper on Wednesday morning.

Trooper Joseph Bullock was assisting a disabled vehicle in the northbound lanes of I-95 near mile marker 107, just south of Martin Highway.

Authorities said the suspect, who was with the disabled vehicle, opened fire, shooting and killing the 42-year-old trooper.

RELATED: Trooper Joseph Bullock shot, killed on I-95 in Martin County

A tow truck driver who was called to help at the scene told witnesses the suspect was irate at having to pay to tow his car.

Witnesses said the shooter's gun jammed, which gave the tow truck driver time to escape.

According to authorities, a Riviera Beach police officer who was passing by shot and killed the suspect at the scene.

"There was six shots," said Randy Pitino, a witness. "I heard gunfire first, and then I seen gunfire back from the Riviera Beach officer."

RELATED: Off-duty firefighter describes trying to save FHP trooper following deadly shooting

The identity of the shooter has not yet been released.

"Our police officers don't get enough credit, putting their lives on the line every day," said Pitino.