UPDATED

Police: Librarian Pointed Gun At Witness Following Hit And Run Crash

Posted

UPDATE: An update from investigators says Sara Morales intentionally struck the motorcycle in this incident. Police have also identified the shooter as 40-year-old Andrew Derr.

According to police, after Derr and another witnessed followed Morales on Wisconsin Avenue, Morales went into her home, which is when police were called to the area. A short time later, Morales emerged from her home and confronted Derr and witnesses as they called 911. That's when Morales reportedly pointed a handgun at the witness and Derr.

Derr, who possesses a valid Florida Concealed weapons permit, drew his concealed handgun and fired multiple rounds, striking Morales. Morales’ handgun was recovered on-scene.

Investigators say these facts have been established by independent interviews. Derr is also said to be cooperating with law enforcement.

The Orange City Police Department in conjunction with the State Attorney’s Office is continuing to investigate this incident.

Earlier reporting below.

Orange City, FL - Police continue to investigate a road rage incident that led to the death of a Volusia County librarian.

A report from the Orange City Police Department says officers responded to reports of a hit and run crash on Saturday (Nov. 20). They learned that a blue Kia hit a motorcycle and fled the scene southbound on US 17-92 in the 1400 of N. Volusia Avenue. Police say the motorcycle and a witness both followed the blue vehicle to the intersection of US 17-92 and Wisconsin Avenue.

Both the rider and the other witness told the driver to stop, but they continued onto East Wisconsin Avenue, where she did eventually stop.

A confrontation then took place in the roadway, subsequently leading to shots being fired. Police say the driver, who has been identified as 35-year-old Sara Morales, was shot multiple times. Morales was transported to Halifax Health Medical Center where she was later pronounced deceased.

Police say the investigation remains active and ongoing, and no one has been charged at this time. Investigators say they have identified all parties involved, but their identities have yet to be released.

In the wake of Morales' death, Volusia County has closed the libraries in DeLand and Pierson to give employees time to grieve.

Anyone with additional information on this case is asked to contact Detective Kenneth Jones at 386-775-9999.