The Irving Police Department is currently investigating an officer-involved shooting near the intersection of President George Bush Turnpike and Las Colinas Blvd. Fortunately, no officers sustained injuries during the incident. However, the suspect involved has been confirmed deceased.
Authorities have cordoned off the area, prompting the closure of all southbound lanes of President George Bush Turnpike in the vicinity. Residents and commuters are advised to steer clear of the area until further notice.
Further details regarding the incident are expected to be disclosed later today as the investigation unfolds.
UPDATE:
Irving Police Chief Derick Miller provided an update on the officer-involved shooting that occurred during a traffic incident earlier today.
On Wednesday, March 13th, at approximately 6:00 am, a major accident took place on President George Bush Tollway, just north of Highway 114. Texas Highway Patrol requested assistance from the Irving Police Department to manage traffic control. Officers promptly set up barricades along the highway, particularly at I-635 and President George Bush Freeway.
Around 11:00 am, a vehicle traveling at a high speed broke through the barricade where two Irving officers were stationed to safeguard the public. The officers pursued the vehicle, which was soon halted by traffic congestion near Las Colinas Blvd. The occupant of the vehicle exited and fled on foot, brandishing a knife.
Officers pursued the individual on foot, attempting to deescalate the situation by urging them to drop the weapon. Despite the officers' efforts, the suspect continued moving along the roadside shoulder. At one point, the suspect turned towards one of the officers, prompting the officer to back away into a vehicle that was in the right shoulder of the road.
The situation escalated when the suspect persisted in advancing towards the officer with the knife. In response, the officer discharged their service weapon, striking the suspect multiple times. Immediate medical aid was provided by officers, and the Irving Fire Department arrived promptly to transport the suspect to Parkland Hospital, where they succumbed to their injuries.
Chief Miller mentioned that simultaneous investigations are underway, with the IPD Criminal Division and Internal Affairs conducting inquiries. The officer involved in the shooting, a 15-year veteran with a commendable record, is reportedly shaken by the incident. Authorities are currently probing the circumstances leading to the suspect's reckless actions and their failure to comply with officers' commands.
