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Dash Cam Video Of Fayetteville Officer-Involved Shooting Released

FAYETTEVILLE (KFSM) — The Washington County prosecuting attorney announced Friday (June 3) he determined an officer-involved shooting involving a Fayettev...

FAYETTEVILLE (KFSM) -- The Washington County prosecuting attorney announced Friday (June 3) he determined an officer-involved shooting involving a Fayetteville officer was justified.

Prosecutor Matt Durrett said no charges will be filed in the case.

The shooting took place April 23 when Fayetteville police stopped Willie Tillman, 33, of Marianna for driving without headlights around 2:25 a.m., according to police.

Tillman stepped out of the vehicle, but dove back inside the car and attempted to flee from police. A struggle ensued between the officers and Tillman, who was able to drive the vehicle while the officers were partially inside.

Police said Corporal Patrick Hanby and Officer Brandon Jones first used their tasers on Tillman, but where unsuccessful in making him stop the car. Hanby was able to get out of vehicle, but Jones was still inside while Tillman continued driving.

"It was at that point that Officer Jones pulled his gun and then Tillman tried to grabbed for the gun," Durret said. "[Jones] fired a shot. [Tillman] grabbed the gun again, [Jones] fired two more shots and then fired one last shot while Tillman had his hand on the gun.

Jones was eventually able to get the vehicle to stop. Tillman was taken to the hospital where he died May 9 from his injuries.

An internal investigation conducted by the Fayetteville Police Department found the officers followed protocol during the incident. The investigation also found Jones’ actions were justified.

Investigators used officer statements, audio and video recordings from both officers, physical evidence and independent third party videos while conducting the investigation.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office investigated the incident at the request of Fayetteville Police Chief Greg Tabor and then turned it over to Durrett for review.

Durrett said after searching Tillman’s car police found marijuana in his back seat.

Court records also show Tillman had warrants out for his arrest on charges ranging from possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver to aggravated assault.

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