The Lubbock Police Department on Thursday said the officer involved in a shooting on July 5 was cleared by internal investigation and a review from the DA’s Office and has returned to duty.
LPD said officers responded to the 2900 block of Parkway Drive at 3:22 a.m. on July 5th for a report of a fight in progress involving up to 100 people. Nearly every officer in the city responded.
Police said an officer saw the suspect as he was shooting and started chasing him. The officer told the suspect, Terrence Hastings Jr.,17, to show his hands. Instead, the suspect pointed his weapon towards others on scene, prompting the officer to shoot. After being shot, LPD said Hastings continued to reach for his weapon, so the officer fired another shot. Hastings was pronounced dead at the scene. Five people had been injured at the scene and taken to the hospital. The five injuries were not related to the officer shooting Hastings.
Photo from LPD shows suspect reaching for gun
“Officer-involved shootings are among the most serious and scrutinized incidents a police department can face. Following a comprehensive internal review and an independent review by the Lubbock County District Attorney’s Office, it has been determined the officer involved in this case acted well within department policy and the law. The District Attorney’s Office has also confirmed the shooting was justified and does not intend to pursue any criminal charges related to the officer-involved incident based upon the investigation conducted by the Lubbock Metropolitan Special Crimes Unit.
While any loss of life is tragic, the evidence in this case shows the officer responded to an immediate and deadly active shooter event. These actions not only followed LPD training as it relates to the preservation of innocent life, but followed the tactics taught in the state mandated ALERRT (Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training) course for all peace officers. The actions of this officer likely prevented further injury or loss of life to bystanders at the scene.”
Statement from Chief Herman
