Residents in parts of southern Columbia County, Florida, have been advised by local law enforcement to remain indoors due to an ongoing manhunt. Authorities from the Columbia and Suwannee County Sheriff’s Offices issued a warning through social media channels on Friday morning, advising of increased police activity near Branford. The individual of interest is believed to be connected with a vehicle theft incident. Law enforcement has requested that community members stay vigilant and report any unusual activities immediately.

Local authorities revealed that the suspect fled into a heavily wooded area close to the 1700 block of 260th Street, situated between Branford and Fort White. Described as a Caucasian male, he was last seen wearing blue jeans, a blue hat, and potentially a denim jacket. Deputies are currently combing the dense forest region where the suspect was last spotted. Due to safety concerns, residents in the vicinity have been strongly encouraged to secure their homes and avoid unnecessary travel until further notice.

The search operation has mobilized significant resources from both counties' sheriff's offices. While officers continue their efforts to locate the fugitive, they emphasize the importance of public cooperation. Neighbors are reminded to lock doors, keep windows closed, and notify authorities if they observe anything out of the ordinary. Law enforcement officials stated that more updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

As the investigation unfolds, the community remains on high alert. Residents express hope that the swift response from law enforcement will lead to a quick resolution. In the meantime, people living in the affected areas are staying informed via local news outlets and official communications from the sheriff's office. Authorities reiterate their commitment to ensuring public safety and ask for patience and cooperation from everyone involved.