News Release 25-044 - Deputy-Involved Shooting in Venice

Date: August 13, 2025
Location: 208 Golf Club Lane, Venice

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) is currently investigating a deputy-involved shooting that took place this morning at a residence in Venice.

At 10:58 a.m., deputies from the SCSO’s Fugitive Apprehension Unit, along with patrol units, arrived at the scene to execute an active warrant. Upon arrival, they confirmed that the subject, later identified as Anthony Bottoni, was inside the residence. Deputies issued verbal commands for him to exit, but he refused to comply.

Given the circumstances, deputies decided to force entry into the home. Once inside, they discovered that Bottoni had armed himself with a firearm. In response to this escalating situation, deputies withdrew to the backyard and called for assistance from the SWAT team and the Hostage Negotiation Team.

In a matter of minutes, Bottoni exited the residence while still armed. Deputies once again instructed him to drop his firearm. When he did not comply, one of the deputies deployed a Taser in an attempt to incapacitate Bottoni. However, the device was ineffective, and the situation intensified when Bottoni aimed his firearm at the deputies. Faced with a clear and immediate threat to their safety, the deputies responded with deadly force.

After the shooting occurred, deputies promptly attempted life-saving measures on Bottoni. Emergency services, including the Sarasota County Fire Department (SCFD), arrived shortly thereafter and took over medical efforts. Despite their attempts to revive him, Bottoni was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The investigation into this critical incident is ongoing. The decedent, Anthony Bottoni, was identified as being born on May 6, 1993, and was a resident of the address where the shooting occurred. Authorities have confirmed that the next of kin has already been notified. Fortunately, there were no other reported injuries stemming from this incident.

The SCSO is committed to transparency and will provide updates as more information becomes available. As this is an active investigation, further details may take time to be released to the public.

The Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with information related to this incident to contact their office directly.

Two Bodies Found Under Semi-Truck Behind Sarasota Store Identified as Murder-Suicide

Sarasota County detectives have classified the deaths of two individuals discovered under a semi-truck behind a local store as a murder-suicide. This tragic incident has raised serious concerns among community members, prompting discussions about domestic violence awareness and mental health resources.

The authorities reported that the bodies were identified shortly after the discovery was made. The identities have not been made public, pending notification of the next of kin. This event has shocked many in Sarasota, a close-knit community known for its vibrant culture and family-oriented atmosphere.

Onlookers described the scene as unsettling. Witnesses reported seeing law enforcement and emergency responders arrive at the location, drawn by the chilling call that something was amiss. The semi-truck parked behind the store had become an unexpected backdrop to a deeply disturbing situation.

Detectives have not disclosed specific details about the circumstances leading up to the deaths, nor have they revealed the relationship between the two individuals. The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office is actively investigating the incident, examining any possible motivations behind the tragic decision that led to this outcome.

Authorities stress the importance of mental health resources and encourage anyone who may be struggling with emotional distress to reach out for help. Domestic violence is often surrounded by stigma, yet finding support from professionals can be a critical step toward healing for those affected.

As the investigation continues, community members are left grappling with unanswered questions. Local mental health advocates are stepping forward to offer support and resources to those in need, emphasizing that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

It is essential for the community to come together in these trying times, fostering discussions that can lead to greater awareness about mental health challenges and the resources available. The hope is that through education and open dialogue, future tragedies can be prevented.

Sarasota County detectives are encouraging anyone who may have information related to this case to come forward. As the community mourns the loss of life and grapples with the implications of this tragedy, a collective effort to understand the signs of distress and promote mental health awareness has never been more crucial.

This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the crucial need for support systems in our neighborhoods. As more details emerge, the community's response will undoubtedly highlight the resilience and solidarity that can emerge even in the face of deep sorrow.

Local leaders are calling for a deeper investigation into widespread issues of domestic violence, suggesting that enhanced support systems could be crucial for individuals who might feel trapped in difficult situations. This incident has sparked a conversation around creating more accessible resources, support groups, and community outreach programs.

The tragic events surrounding this case have ignited a sense of urgency among mental health professionals and advocates. They stress that the signs of struggling relationships often go unnoticed, and proactive measures are vital in addressing these issues before they escalate to tragic outcomes.

For those interested in staying informed about the ongoing investigation and further community discussions, local news outlets and mental health organizations will provide updates and resources. In moments of crisis, it is critical to remember that help is available, and no one has to navigate difficult times alone.

As Sarasota grapples with this loss, community members are reminded to look out for one another and foster an environment where open conversations about mental health and domestic issues can occur without fear of judgement. Together, the hope is to create pathways toward healing and support for those in need.