Marion County Deputies Shoot Abductor of 13-Year-Old Girl in Ocala
A 13-year-old girl was abducted in Ocala, Florida on Monday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. An Amber Alert identified the suspect as 45‑year‑old Jason Castillo, who was driving a red 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe with Florida plate 77ERLW.
Marion County sheriff’s deputies located Castillo shortly before 5:30 p.m. and began a pursuit. When they finally stopped the vehicle, Castillo allegedly drew a firearm. Eight deputies and a police officer opened fire, killing Castillo. The girl was found unharmed and was returned to her family. Sheriff Billy Woods praised the deputies, saying, "I couldn’t be more proud of my deputies. When that little girl needed them, they answered the call."
Entities: 13-year-old girl (unnamed) · Billy Woods · Jason Castillo · Marion County Sheriff’s Office · Ocala, Florida
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how well corroborated each claim is across sources.
- [● 2 SOURCES] The abducted girl was found safe and returned to her home. (Sheriff’s office)
- [● 2 SOURCES] Eight deputies and one police officer opened fire, killing Castillo. (Law‑enforcement reports)
- [● 2 SOURCES] Sheriff Billy Woods said, “I couldn’t be more proud of my deputies.” (Sheriff’s public comment)
- [● 2 SOURCES] Jason Castillo, 45, was identified as the suspect and described as driving a red 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe with Florida license plate 77ERLW. (Amber Alert)
- [● 2 SOURCES] A 13-year-old girl was abducted in Ocala, Florida between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Monday. (Police reports and Amber Alert)
- [● 2 SOURCES] When confronted, Castillo allegedly brandished a gun. (Deputy accounts)
- [● 2 SOURCES] Marion County deputies located Castillo shortly before 5:30 p.m. and pursued him. (Law‑enforcement reports)