Las Vegas Police Release Details on Chase Shooting

Waren Burn

2 min read

·

04-12-2024

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Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) released details surrounding a high-speed chase and subsequent officer-involved shooting that occurred late Tuesday night. The incident, which unfolded in the southwest valley, left one suspect injured and sparked a significant police response.

The Chase

According to LVMPD spokesperson, Officer Larry Hadfield, the pursuit began around 11:45 PM after officers attempted to stop a vehicle matching the description of one involved in an earlier armed robbery. The driver, identified only as a male suspect, refused to yield, initiating a high-speed chase through residential streets. Officer Hadfield emphasized that during the pursuit, the suspect exhibited reckless driving behavior, endangering both the public and pursuing officers.

The Shooting

The chase concluded near the intersection of Spring Mountain Road and Buffalo Drive when the suspect's vehicle came to a stop. Police reports indicate that the suspect exited the vehicle and allegedly brandished a weapon, prompting one or more officers to discharge their firearms. The exact number of shots fired and the type of weapon allegedly brandished by the suspect remain under investigation.

Suspect's Condition and Charges

The suspect sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center. His condition is currently listed as stable. LVMPD anticipates filing charges of armed robbery, felony evading, and resisting arrest, pending the outcome of the investigation. Further charges could be added depending on the results of forensic analysis.

The Investigation

The LVMPD Force Investigation Team (FIT) has been activated, as is standard protocol in officer-involved shootings. This independent review will meticulously examine the circumstances leading up to the shooting, including the actions of the officers involved, to determine if department policies and procedures were followed. Body camera footage from the officers involved will be reviewed as part of the investigation. The findings of the FIT investigation will be made public once the review is complete.

Public Safety and Transparency

Officer Hadfield stressed the department’s commitment to transparency throughout the investigation. "We understand the public's concern and we want to assure everyone that we are conducting a thorough and impartial investigation," he stated. The LVMPD urged anyone with information related to the incident to contact them immediately. They further emphasized the importance of community collaboration in maintaining public safety. The department expects to release more information as the investigation progresses.