WEST FORK, Ark. — The Arkansas State Police announced an investigation into a West Fork man's death after he was tased by police following a traffic stop on Thursday, Dec. 29.
According to a state police press release, 49-year-old Michael Hanna died after he was "being taken into custody by a West Fork police officer."
The traffic stop happened at around 4:15 p.m. along US Highway 71 in West Fork, police say. "During the course of the traffic stop, a fight ensued and the officer deployed his taser on Hanna," ASP said.
According to West Fork Mayor Heith Caudle, the officer was injured but has since been released from the hospital. The identity of the officer hasn't been released, but Caudle says they are currently on administrative leave while the investigation by state police is active.
Hanna's cause of death is still unknown and his body has reportedly been transported to the Arkansas State Crime lab.
West Fork Police Department requested ASP to open an investigation of the death. Once ASP finishes, it will pass along the case file to the Washington County prosecuting attorney.
Stay with 5NEWS as this story develops.
Download the 5NEWS app on your smartphone:
Stream 5NEWS 24/7 on the 5+ app: How to watch the 5+ app on your streaming device
To report a typo or grammatical error, please email KFSMDigitalTeam@tegna.com and detail which story you're referring to.