A traffic stop near a Lake Worth Walmart turned deadly Friday night when a slow-speed police chase ended in an officer-involved shooting behind the store. The encounter started just before 7 p.m. and wrapped within about half an hour. Responders pronounced the suspect dead at the scene, and Lake Worth police said no officers were injured.
From Routine Stop To Parking-Lot Standoff
Officers first tried to pull over a red Ford Ranger in the 6000 block of Lake Worth Boulevard shortly before 7 p.m., according to CBS News Texas. Police said the driver, who had an active probation revocation warrant for solicitation of prostitution, took off instead of stopping.
The pursuit did not turn into a high-speed movie chase. It slowed, and the truck eventually became disabled behind the Walmart at 6360 Lake Worth Blvd. Officers said the driver got out, "took a shooting stance" and pointed what appeared to be a weapon. At that point, officers fired, according to CBS News Texas, and later in a press release.
Life-Saving Efforts Fall Short
Officers immediately started life-saving measures until emergency medical crews arrived. The suspect was later pronounced dead behind the store. FOX 4 reported that four Lake Worth officers were involved and that the Tarrant County Sheriff's Office assisted at the scene.
The vehicle came to rest in the parking area behind the Walmart at 6360 Lake Worth Blvd, which is listed as the store's address on Walmart.
Texas Rangers Take Over The Case
The Texas Rangers have been asked to lead the criminal investigation and will present their findings to the Tarrant County criminal district attorney. The Dallas Morning News reported that Saginaw officers helped attempt the initial traffic stop before the chase rolled into Lake Worth. Deputies from Tarrant County also assisted investigators on scene as evidence teams documented and processed the area.
Department Review And Call For Witnesses
The Lake Worth Police Department says the Rangers will conduct an independent criminal probe while the department runs a separate administrative review of its policies and procedures connected to the shooting. In a statement to CBS News Texas, Chief J.T. Manoushagian said all involved officers are okay and asked anyone who witnessed the incident or captured video to contact detectives at [email protected] or (817) 237-1224. Prosecutors will rely on the Rangers' report in making any charging decisions.
Key Questions Still Hanging
Officials have not yet released the suspect's name, nor have they said whether any additional charges could emerge once the Rangers wrap up their work. FOX 4 noted that information remained limited at the time of publication, and authorities say the investigation is still active. This story will be updated as agencies release more documents or public statements.
