A routine traffic stop turned deadly as deputies shot a driver who allegedly pointed a flashlight at them, according to Texas authorities.
The incident occurred in the early hours of August 22 when two deputies from the Randall County Sheriff’s Office spotted a van breezing through a stop sign near an Amarillo, Texas intersection during their patrol.
The deputies activated their emergency lights to halt the van but the driver continued for about two blocks before abruptly exiting the vehicle, disregarding commands to stay inside.
In a surprising turn, the driver aimed a lit flashlight toward the deputies, which they perceived as a threat. Responding promptly, the deputies discharged three rounds at the driver, resulting in a single gunshot wound to the groin area, officials detailed.
The injured driver, who remains unidentified, received medical attention from the deputies who secured a passenger in the van. Additional support arrived at the scene with deputies and officers from the Amarillo Police Department providing aid.
Transported to Northwest Texas Hospital, the driver underwent treatment for what authorities have deemed a “non-life-threatening injury.”
Both deputies involved, though unnamed, have been placed on administrative leave adhering to protocols outlined by the Randall County Sheriff’s Office.
