Jacksonville downtown road closed as investigators probe scene near JSO headquarters

JACKSONVILLE — Portions of East Bay Street in downtown Jacksonville were closed Sunday as law enforcement worked around a vehicle near the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office headquarters, officials and reporters at the scene said.

Police have blocked East Bay Street between Liberty Street and Newnan Street, impacting traffic through the central business district. Crews observed numerous law enforcement vehicles, evidence markers on the ground and officers photographing a gold Lexus parked on Market Street between East Bay and Forsyth streets, less than a block from the sheriff’s office.

What residents and drivers need to know

• Road closure: East Bay Street is shut between Liberty and Newnan streets.
• Location of vehicle: Gold Lexus parked on Market Street between East Bay and Forsyth streets.
• Traffic impact: Expect delays; avoid the area and use alternate downtown routes.

Investigators noted the vehicle’s airbags appeared to have deployed and the driver’s side door was open. Evidence markers were placed around the car while officers documented the scene. Police activity was also reported near Ford on Bay, several blocks to the west.

"The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has not released details about what prompted the investigation,"

The sheriff’s office has not provided additional information about what led officers to the location, whether anyone was injured or if anyone had been taken into custody. News crews at the scene reported that the investigation was ongoing.

Local consequences and context

The closure affects a key artery for downtown traffic, including commuters, delivery vehicles and people accessing nearby government and commercial buildings. Businesses in the immediate area may experience reduced customer access while the scene remains active.

Drivers are advised to avoid East Bay Street near the affected block and expect delays around Forsyth, Market and adjacent streets. Those who normally travel through the area should allow extra time or choose alternative routes such as Bay Street eastbound or State Street to bypass the closure.

This is a developing situation. Local authorities and News Block will update residents as the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office releases further details.