On September 25, 2023, around 2:30 a.m., officers from the Tallahassee Police Department were called to what initially appeared to be a residential burglary in the 2300 block of Sandpiper Street, involving multiple armed suspects. Upon further investigation, it was revealed that the responding officers had interrupted a targeted home invasion related to drug activity that was already underway.
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One suspect, matching the description provided in the initial 911 call, was spotted by officers as they fled the scene. Despite repeated verbal commands to stop, the suspect refused to comply, leading to a foot pursuit. During the chase, another suspect emerged from the residence and opened fire on the officers.
In the exchange of gunfire, one of the responding officers, Caleb Babb, was struck and sustained serious injuries. He was swiftly transported to a local hospital where he underwent surgery. Fortunately, Officer Babb is currently in stable condition. Within a week of the incident, Officer Babb was transferred to Encompass Health, where medical professionals continued to provide intensive care to aid in his recovery.
In recognition of his bravery and sacrifice, Officer Babb was awarded the Purple Heart by Chief Revell. This prestigious honor is reserved for members of the Tallahassee Police Department who are significantly injured or killed in the line of duty. Officer Babb is the fourth recipient of this award and the first to receive it while still alive.
All three suspects involved in the incident, including John’Darious Wright were apprehended and charged within ten days of the event.
