Authorities in Haines City, Florida, are actively searching for Matthew James Hawkins, a suspect wanted in connection with a shooting incident that occurred on Thursday, October 1, 2026. The Haines City Police Department has announced that Hawkins is facing charges of aggravated battery with a firearm following an altercation at a victim's residence. According to police reports, the dispute escalated when Hawkins allegedly shot the victim multiple times before fleeing the scene. The victim sustained injuries during the incident. Hawkins remains at large, and law enforcement has issued a warning that he may still be armed and should be considered dangerous. Officials have advised the public to exercise extreme caution and to avoid approaching or attempting to confront Hawkins if he is spotted. Instead, residents are urged to contact law enforcement immediately with any information regarding his whereabouts. To assist in the manhunt, Polk County Heartland Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $2,500 for tips that lead to Hawkins' arrest. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 1-888-400-TIPS (8477), dialing TIPS from a mobile phone, visiting heartlandcrimestoppers.com and selecting the 'Submit a Tip' option, or using the free P3 Tips mobile application. The investigation is ongoing, and police continue to seek the public's assistance in locating the suspect and bringing him to justice.