TYLER, Texas — The Tyler Police Department released body camera footage showing the moment a police officer’s gun discharged during a struggle with a suspect, KLTV reported.
According to the department, officers responded to a reported theft at a Dollar General on May 11. Two suspects fled the scene on foot. One was detained without incident. The second allegedly refused to comply with commands and continued trying to flee.
An arrest affidavit states that the suspect twisted away from the officer’s grasp and began to run before tripping. A struggle ensued on the ground in which she allegedly thrashed and bit the officer in an attempt to resist arrest.
According to police, the suspect then grabbed the officer’s holstered gun and managed to unholster it partially, firing a shot in the process. No injuries were reported. The officer responded with what police described as a “closed-hand strike” to prevent further escalation.
A second officer arrived to assist. Body camera footage, along with video recorded by a bystander and shared with local media, captured portions of the incident.
The Tyler Patrolman’s Association called the incident “an extremely dangerous act that could have ended in tragedy.” In a statement, association president Tyler Pride said the officers showed “incredible restraint in a life-threatening moment” and urged the public not to rush to judgment as the investigation continues.
The suspect was booked into the Smith County Jail on multiple charges, including two counts of aggravated assault of a public servant, resisting arrest, evading arrest or detention, harassment of a public servant and possession of a controlled substance. A full internal investigation is underway.
