An Arkansas State Trooper on patrol duties in Pope County last night (Friday, October 24th, 8:35 PM) attempted to stop a passenger vehicle in Russellville along Arkansas Highway 7 (north).
The driver, later identified as Bobby Shane Patrick, 27, refused to stop the vehicle and fled from the State Trooper traveling about ten miles east along State Highway 27 where he abandoned the car.
Patrick was seen fleeing the area on foot with a handgun.
Inside the vehicle State Police found a passenger identified as Brooke Haley Beard, 24, of Russellville. Beard is presently on probation from Yell County for drug possession and hindering apprehension or prosecution. Beard was taken into custody and turned-over to Pope County authorities.
The vehicle driven by Patrick had been reported stolen one month ago in Dardanelle.
During the course of the search for Patrick, State Police learned Patrick was wanted on warrants for parole violation, drug possession and failure to appear.
Shortly after 2 AM today State Troopers and officers of the Arkansas Department of Correction (Calico Rock Unit) tracking dog team spotted Patrick in tall grass not far from where he had abandoned the stolen car.
As the search team confronted Patrick he raised a handgun at officers who then fired their weapons killing him.
No State Troopers or ADC personnel were injured.
A State Police investigation of the shooting is underway involving both the department’s Criminal Investigation Division and Office of Professional Standards.
An investigative file will be presented to the prosecuting attorney to consider if the use of deadly force by law enforcement officers was consistent with Arkansas laws.
As prescribed by State Police policy, State Troopers involved in the shooting incident have been placed on administrative leave with pay while the review by Special Agents of the Office of Professional Standards is underway.
The names of the Troopers involved will be released upon completion of the OPS review.
Any questions relating to the identity or administrative status of ADC personnel should be directed to the Arkansas Department of Correction.
