The Temple Police Department, in conjunction with the Texas Rangers, is actively investigating a recent officer-involved shooting that led to the death of a 23-year-old male.
At approximately 1:15 p.m. on January 30, 2024, officers responded to a distress call in the 900 block of S. 9th St., where a male was reported to be threatening suicide. However, before officers could reach the initial location, the individual, identified as Chad Hartley of Temple, left the residence with a firearm and relocated to the 1600 block of Ave H.
Upon arrival at the new location around 1:30 p.m., officers encountered Hartley, who brandished a handgun at an officer before retreating into a mobile home, prompting officers to establish a perimeter and evacuate nearby residents. Temple Fire and Rescue, as well as Temple EMS, were placed on standby for assistance.
Despite continuous efforts to communicate with Hartley, he refused to surrender the weapon and exit the residence. Negotiations persisted until approximately 2:36 p.m. when Hartley pointed the handgun first at a drone outside the home and then at another officer through an open window. In response, the officer discharged a single round, resulting in Hartley's death.
Following the incident, officers entered the residence to provide aid, but Justice of the Peace Larry Wilkey pronounced Hartley deceased at 2:45 p.m. In accordance with standard procedure, the Temple Police Department has called in the Texas Rangers to conduct an investigation into the officer-involved shooting.
The involved officer has been placed on administrative leave with pay, and an internal affairs investigation has been initiated.
