Langston Sykes, a Mixed martial arts fighter, Was shot and killed in Florida late Tuesday night after allegedly attending a home invasion, police said in a statement.
Police in Lake City received a call of 911 just after 1 p.m. 23 with regard to an individual who was shot after a reported burglary in a residence in Lake City, about 45 miles North of Gainesville.
Langston Sykes, 31, had a PRO record of 1-4-0 and last competed in a match in August, won of TKO. (Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
Once on stage, officers found 31-year-old Sykes “not responding.”
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“Officers administered first aid until EMS arrived, but the individual succumbed to his injuries,” the statement reads.
According to law enforcement, Sykes allegedly tried “to break into the home and had success.” There were more children and adults in the home at the time. Police said that when Sykes “rushed” against the individuals in the home, one of the adult “more shots” fired against him, mortally injured him.
Police later identified Sykes and added that one of the adults in the home had an active injunction against him. They noted that the early study seemed to point to a case of “self -defense.”
“Results from the study suggest that the case may qualify under Florida’s stand your land law, “ Police said and added that the investigation remains in progress.
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“This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with everyone affected,” police chief Gerald Butler said in a statement. “Based on the investigation, it seems that this may be a case of a resident acting in self -defense during a home invasion. Our detectives work diligently to collect all facts to ensure a thorough and complete study. We encourage everyone with information to arrive.”
Police said the early investigation seemed to point to a case of “self -defense.” (istock)
A Florida-based mixed martial arts school, which Sykes belonged to, released a statement after news of his death.
“Langston was not only a tough competitor and a dedicated teammate, but he was also a great father, a loyal friend and a man who brought light into every room he came into. His kindness, his laughter and his unwavering support for those he loved will never be forgotten,” the statement reads.
“Our hearts go out to his family, especially his five children, who was his greatest pride and joy. We ask you to keep them in your thoughts and prayers in this difficult time.”
Sykes had a PRO record of 1-4-0. He competed late in the Iceland Fights promotion in August, won by TKO.
