MENA (KFSM) — The police officer involved in Tuesday’s shooting (Feb. 16) has been placed on paid administrative leave, according to Mena Police Chief Brandon Martin.
The chief said the action taken is standard while an investigation is ongoing of the officer’s protocol.
Martin also said that the officer had a few minor injuries, but was in good health.
The Arkansas State Police will prepare an investigative file relating to the officer-involved shooting.
A Mena police officer shot and killed a suspect at Kess’ Corner convenience store Tuesday around noon. ASP later identified the suspect as 30-year-old Shawn Henry Allen Dickens.
The officer approached Dickens around noon, and a physical altercation evolved, a release from ASP stated. Dickens then fled on foot and dropped a handgun.
Initial statements from police indicate the fleeing suspect turned to pick-up the gun and simultaneous commands were reportedly given by police for the man to stop and move away from the gun, the release stated.
The commands were reportedly ignored leading to the police officer firing his gun, according to the release.
