Joshua Voigt Fatally Shoots Father, Critically Injures Mother in Violent Domestic Dispute; Suspect Fleeing in Silver Toyota Corolla, Considered Armed and Dangerous
Bartow, FL – December 8, 2024
A harrowing sequence of events unfolded late Saturday evening in Bartow, Florida, as a domestic dispute escalated into a fatal shooting, leaving a family devastated and law enforcement scrambling to apprehend a fugitive suspect. The incident occurred on Highland Boulevard and claimed the life of 53-year-old David Voigt, while his wife, 50-year-old Lisa Voigt, was critically injured and remains in intensive care.
Authorities have identified the suspect as the couple’s son, Joshua Voigt, 28, a man with a history of violent criminal behavior. According to initial reports, Joshua Voigt allegedly fired multiple shots at his parents during a domestic altercation. This tragic act has sent shockwaves through the community and underscored ongoing concerns about how repeat offenders navigate the legal system.
Timeline of Events
Saturday, December 7, 2024, 11:18 p.m.
A frantic 911 call was placed from a home on Highland Boulevard reporting multiple gunshots and a victim suffering from gunshot wounds. Although the caller was able to confirm that the victims had been shot, they could not specify the suspect’s location, leaving law enforcement on high alert.
Emergency Response and Victim Transport
First responders from the Polk County Fire Rescue and Bartow Police Department rushed to the scene, where they discovered David and Lisa Voigt gravely injured. Both were promptly transported to Lakeland Regional Hospital for emergency medical treatment. Tragically, David Voigt succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. His wife Lisa, who suffered multiple gunshot wounds, underwent emergency surgery and remains in critical condition as of Sunday morning.
Joshua Voigt: A Troubled History
Investigators quickly identified Joshua Voigt as the prime suspect, piecing together a troubling history of violence that painted a picture of escalating danger. Voigt’s criminal record reveals repeated brushes with the law:
- November 30, 2024: Arrested for battery and assault. Voigt was released on bond pending trial.
- October 2023: Arrested for firing a weapon in a residential area, a case that remains active in court. Voigt was also released on bond following this incident.
These past offenses, combined with the current tragedy, have raised critical questions about the judicial system’s handling of high-risk offenders and the potential missed opportunities to prevent such violence.
The Chase: Law Enforcement’s Efforts to Locate the Suspect
11:32 p.m.
A silver or gray Toyota Corolla matching the description of the suspect’s vehicle was spotted traveling northbound on Highway 17 near Lake Ship. Deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, officers from the Winter Haven Police Department, and aerial and K-9 units mobilized to search for the vehicle. However, initial attempts to intercept the car in the Bartow area were unsuccessful.
12:24 a.m.
The suspect’s vehicle was reportedly seen near Orlando, prompting authorities to expand their search. The Orlando Police Department joined forces with Polk County deputies, intensifying the manhunt across multiple jurisdictions. As of Sunday morning, Joshua Voigt remains at large, with law enforcement warning the public not to approach him.
Vehicle Description
Authorities have provided the following details about the suspect’s vehicle:
- Make and Model: Toyota Corolla
- Color: Silver/Gray
- Distinguishing Features: Black rims and tinted windows
Citizens are urged to report any sightings of the vehicle or the suspect immediately by calling 911 or the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Voigt is considered armed and dangerous, and law enforcement officials have emphasized the importance of not engaging with him directly.
Community Response
The Bartow community has been left reeling in the wake of this tragedy. David Voigt, described by neighbors as a kind and hardworking individual, was a beloved figure in the neighborhood. Friends and family have expressed their grief and disbelief over his sudden and violent death. Lisa Voigt, a devoted mother and active community member, is now fighting for her life, and her survival remains uncertain.
Local officials, including Bartow Mayor Scott Morris, have extended their condolences to the Voigt family and pledged full support to law enforcement in their efforts to bring the suspect to justice.
Larger Implications: A Debate on Criminal Justice
The case has reignited debates surrounding the release of violent offenders on bond. Advocates for reform argue that cases like Joshua Voigt’s demonstrate the need for stricter policies regarding repeat offenders, especially those with a history of escalating violence. Critics point to gaps in the judicial system that allowed Voigt to remain free despite clear warning signs of his potential for harm.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd has assured the public that every available resource is being utilized to locate and apprehend Joshua Voigt. “This was a senseless and heinous act of violence that has devastated a family and shocked our community. We will not rest until Joshua Voigt is in custody,” Sheriff Judd stated during a press briefing early Sunday morning.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about Joshua Voigt’s whereabouts or his vehicle to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers, with a reward offered for information leading to an arrest.
Remembering the Victims
As the investigation continues, friends and family of David and Lisa Voigt are grappling with the magnitude of their loss. Tributes have poured in for David, remembered as a loving husband, father, and friend. Lisa’s colleagues at a local community center have described her as a beacon of kindness and support.
“David and Lisa were the kind of people who would give you the shirt off their backs. They didn’t deserve this,” said longtime neighbor Carol Simmons. “Our hearts go out to Lisa as she fights for her life.”
Law Enforcement Coordination Across Florida
The search for Joshua Voigt has expanded beyond Bartow and surrounding areas, with state and federal agencies now offering their assistance. Coordination with Orlando police and regional task forces underscores the severity of the incident and the determination to apprehend Voigt swiftly.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are expected to provide regular updates, with press conferences scheduled throughout Sunday.
Conclusion
The tragic events on Highland Boulevard have left an indelible mark on the Bartow community, highlighting the devastating impact of domestic violence and the urgent need for systemic changes in addressing repeat offenders. As law enforcement intensifies its efforts to locate Joshua Voigt, the community mourns the loss of David Voigt and prays for the recovery of Lisa Voigt.
