A Florida Department of Corrections officer who started work less than three months ago died during firearms training, officials said Saturday.
Whitney Cloud started her career in public safety with the Department in June this year. She was assigned to the Jefferson Correctional Institution and was enrolled in the Harry K. Singletary Training Academy at the Wakulla Correctional Institution in Crawfordville.
The Florida Department of Corrections said in a statement on Saturday that Cloud was injured by “an accidental discharge” during firearms training at the Harry K. Singletary Training Academy on Thursday. The Department said Cloud was then taken to a nearby hospital where she later died.
“We are absolutely devastated by the loss of Officer Whitney Cloud,” said Secretary Mark Inch.
“As a newly hired officer trainee, Officer Cloud vowed to make a difference in the lives of others and protect her community.,” Inch said. “We are immensely saddened by this unexpected tragedy. Our deepest condolences go out to her loved ones and fellow officers during this extremely difficult time.”
No other officers were injured in the incident, officials said.
