Port Charlotte, January 22, 2026
A shooting incident at a Waffle House in Port Charlotte resulted in the arrest of four individuals after a swift law enforcement response. One victim suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. Following a high-speed chase, law enforcement apprehended the suspects, with multiple firearms recovered during the incident. Investigators continue to probe the motive behind the violence, which appears to have escalated from an argument.
Port Charlotte
Four individuals have been taken into custody following a shooting incident that occurred early this morning at a Waffle House located on Tamiami Trail in Port Charlotte. The swift response by law enforcement led to the apprehension of the suspects after a high-speed pursuit, with one victim sustaining a non-life-threatening injury.
Intense Pursuit Leads to Arrests
The incident unfolded in the pre-dawn hours, prompting deputies to respond quickly to reports of a shooting at the popular restaurant. Upon their arrival, authorities discovered a male victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg. The victim was promptly transported to a local hospital for medical attention, and his injury is not considered life-threatening.
Investigators rapidly identified potential suspects and learned they had fled the scene in two separate vehicles. This information triggered an immediate multi-agency response to locate and intercept the fleeing suspects. A high-speed pursuit ensued, involving law enforcement across Charlotte County.
Suspects Identified and Charged
The coordinated efforts of deputies resulted in the successful stopping of both vehicles on Interstate 75. The first vehicle, a white Nissan Altima, was brought to a halt near mile marker 132 using a precision immobilization technique (PIT maneuver). Shortly thereafter, the second vehicle, a gray Chevy Impala, was intercepted near mile marker 139 on I-75.
Four individuals were subsequently arrested in connection with the shooting. Those taken into custody include Jordan K. Cooper, 21; Jaheim R. Johnson, 19; Joshua J. Miller, 20; and Isaiah K. Williams, 18.
Charges Filed Against Suspects
Each suspect faces multiple charges reflecting their alleged involvement in the violent incident and subsequent flight from justice.
- Jordan K. Cooper, 21, faces charges including Principal to Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Possession of Marijuana with intent to sell, and Violation of Probation.
- Jaheim R. Johnson, 19, has been charged with Principal to Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and Resisting Arrest without Violence.
- Joshua J. Miller, 20, is facing a charge of Principal to Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.
- Isaiah K. Williams, 18, has been charged with Carrying a Concealed Firearm and Resisting Arrest without Violence.
During the course of the pursuit and subsequent arrests, authorities recovered multiple firearms, underscoring the serious nature of the incident.
Ongoing Investigation
The exact motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, but preliminary information suggests the incident may have stemmed from an argument or altercation that escalated into violence. Law enforcement officials have not released further details regarding the specific circumstances that led to the confrontation. The swift action by deputies ensured the safety of the public by quickly apprehending those allegedly responsible.
The four arrested individuals are currently being held in custody as the legal process moves forward. Their involvement and the full scope of the events that transpired at the Waffle House are subject to further judicial proceedings. This incident highlights the commitment of local law enforcement to respond effectively to violent crime and ensure accountability for those who endanger the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the Waffle House in Port Charlotte?
A shooting incident occurred early this morning at a Waffle House on Tamiami Trail in Port Charlotte, resulting in one male victim sustaining a gunshot wound to the leg.
How many people were arrested in connection with the Port Charlotte Waffle House shooting?
Four individuals were arrested: Jordan K. Cooper, 21; Jaheim R. Johnson, 19; Joshua J. Miller, 20; and Isaiah K. Williams, 18.
What charges do the arrested individuals face?
Jordan K. Cooper faces charges including Principal to Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Possession of Marijuana with intent to sell, and Violation of Probation. Jaheim R. Johnson has been charged with Principal to Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and Resisting Arrest without Violence. Joshua J. Miller is facing a charge of Principal to Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon. Isaiah K. Williams has been charged with Carrying a Concealed Firearm and Resisting Arrest without Violence.
Was there a pursuit involved in the arrests?
Yes, a high-speed pursuit ensued after the suspects fled the scene in two vehicles. Both vehicles were eventually stopped on Interstate 75 by law enforcement.
Key Details of the Port Charlotte Waffle House Shooting
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Waffle House on Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte |
| Incident Type | Shooting |
| Victim’s Injury | Gunshot wound to the leg (non-life-threatening) |
| Number of Arrests | 4 |
| Suspects Arrested | Jordan K. Cooper, Jaheim R. Johnson, Joshua J. Miller, Isaiah K. Williams |
| Law Enforcement Action | High-speed pursuit, PIT maneuver, recovery of firearms |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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