Dashcam Footage Of Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting in Midland, Texas
Midland, Texas — The Midland Police Department has released dash camera footage related to the fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred on the night of Monday, July 22, 2016. The video and accompanying statement were released to maintain transparency and reinforce the department’s commitment to building trust with the local community.According to the department’s statement, the decision to release the video was driven by the need for openness, especially in cases involving the use of deadly force by law enforcement officers. The footage comes from a dashboard camera mounted in one of the patrol vehicles present at the scene.
The video shows 19-year-old Kheyanev Littledog, wearing a gray shirt, standing near another individual dressed in a blue shirt. Police confirmed that the second individual was an acquaintance of Littledog and was found not to be involved in any criminal activity. As a result, the acquaintance was released from the scene after the incident.The events unfolded late Monday night after officers were dispatched to the area near Terrell Street and Industrial Avenue in Midland. The call initially came in as a “check person” request, which typically involves verifying the welfare or activity of individuals reported as acting suspiciously or in distress.
Upon arrival, officers encountered Littledog and his acquaintance. Police reported observing what appeared to be a handgun tucked into Littledog’s waistband. Officers began to engage with him, and during the encounter, body camera footage and witness accounts indicated that Littledog began reaching for the firearm.
It was at that point that two officers discharged their weapons, striking Littledog. Officers immediately rendered aid and called for emergency medical responders. Littledog was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead due to his injuries.During the post-incident investigation, authorities discovered that Littledog was in possession of not just the visible handgun in his waistband, but also a second firearm stored in his backpack. Investigators also confirmed that Littledog did not possess a license to carry a firearm, making both weapons unlawfully carried.Police emphasized that the shooting was prompted by what they perceived as an imminent threat to their safety when Littledog reached for the firearm. The department has reiterated that officers are trained to respond to threats swiftly, particularly when a suspect is armed and non-compliant.
The identities of the officers involved in the shooting have not been released, pending further investigation. In accordance with department policy, both officers have been placed on administrative leave while the incident undergoes a thorough review.
The release of the video is part of the Midland Police Department’s broader effort to be forthcoming in critical incidents. Officials stated they hope that transparency will foster understanding, even in tragic situations such as this.
Community members and local leaders have expressed a range of reactions, from calls for continued transparency to concerns about the increasing frequency of officer-involved shootings nationwide. Advocacy groups are monitoring the investigation closely and have asked for assurances that the review process will be fair and unbiased.As of now, the case remains under internal investigation by the Midland Police Department and may also be reviewed by an independent oversight body or the district attorney’s office, depending on the outcome of the preliminary findings.Littledog’s family has not publicly commented on the incident, and funeral arrangements have yet to be announced. The department has not disclosed whether additional video from body-worn cameras will be released in the future, but officials say they are committed to keeping the public informed as new developments arise.
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