A prosecutor has determined that an Arkansas law enforcement officer acted within the law during a fatal shooting incident involving a Texarkana man earlier this month.
Eighth South Judicial District Prosecutor Connie Mitchell announced on April 24 that the officer’s use of deadly force was justified in connection with the April 12 encounter.
According to authorities, the incident began when a state trooper stopped a GMC SUV on State Highway 296 after confirming the driver, 46-year-old Tommy Ray Sevier, had an active felony warrant. Officers from the Texarkana, Arkansas Police Department arrived to assist during the stop.
Investigators say Sevier appeared distressed and initially refused to exit the vehicle. He acknowledged having a firearm and handed one over to officers. However, he later produced a second gun. Officials report that he first attempted to fire it unsuccessfully before ultimately discharging the weapon and inflicting a fatal injury on himself.
After hearing the gunshot, an officer fired a single round, striking Sevier in the shoulder. Authorities confirmed that this wound was not life-threatening. Officers immediately provided medical assistance, but Sevier died while being transported to a hospital.
In her findings, Mitchell stated that evidence—including officer accounts, video footage, and forensic analysis—indicated Sevier’s death resulted from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. She concluded that the officer acted reasonably, believing there was an imminent threat to safety.
The case review determined that no further action would be taken against the officer involved.