There was confusion yesterday in identification of a young man shot by Pine Bluff police serving an arrest warrant. The State Police clarify today:
At approximately 9 PM last night (Wednesday, March 23, 2016) Deontae Garrett, 19, surrendered to Pine Bluff Police Officers. Garrett was wanted on multiple felony warrants originating in Cleveland County.
Earlier yesterday Pine Bluff Police had identified Deontae Garrett as the individual who was shot by a local officer outside 5701 Womack Street.
Following the shooting, Kyle Hunter, Eleventh Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney, requested special agents of the Arkansas State Police to conduct an investigation of the officer involved shooting.
When state police agents arrived at the Womack Street address the wounded individual had already been transported to Jefferson Regional Medical Center and was about to undergo surgery.
Pine Bluff Police Department personnel stated one of their officers arrived at the residence about 2:30 PM (Wednesday) to serve an arrest warrant. The warrant was to be served on Deontae Garrett, wanted for kidnapping, residential burglary and theft.
As the Pine Bluff Police Officer approached the house a young man armed with a pistol exited the residence. The officer reportedly ordered the individual to drop the gun and according to initial statements the individual subsequently pointed the gun at the officer who then shot the person.
State police special agents now suspect the wounded individual is likely a juvenile who has not been positively identified. The wounded juvenile was initially reported to be in critical condition and this morning is reported to be in stable condition.
The state police investigation will be used by Prosecutor Hunter in determining whether use of deadly force by a police officer was consistent with Arkansas law and whether any criminal charges may be warranted against the person who met police with a gun outside the home.