Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Fort Worth Police Chief Describes “Gun Battle” with Burglary Suspect

Three officers from the Fort Worth Police Department engaged in a fierce “gun battle” with a burglary suspect last week, according to Police Chief Neil Noakes. The intense confrontation ended tragically when the suspect turned the gun on himself, as revealed by Noakes during a news conference on Monday.

Noakes estimated that a total of approximately 37 shots were fired during the incident, with 27 coming from the officers and 10 from the suspect. Describing the situation as “very dangerous” and “dynamic,” the Police Chief emphasized that it was a running gun battle with the suspect fleeing from the officers while repeatedly firing rounds in their direction. The officers were compelled to defend themselves in this perilous situation.

The events leading up to the confrontation began when officers responded to a burglar alarm call at a business in the 700 block of North Beach Street around 9 p.m. on Tuesday. Upon arriving at the scene, they identified a potential suspect.

Arrest and Escape

The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Shane Miller, was initially detained by the officers. However, edited footage from the officers’ body-worn cameras, presented during the news conference, showed Miller initially denying possession of any weapons but later admitting to having a small knife.

During the interview, Miller suddenly fled, prompting the officers to give chase. In an attempt to apprehend him, one officer deployed a Taser. Unfortunately, the Taser proved ineffective, and Miller responded by firing multiple shots at the pursuing officers.

A Dramatic Pursuit

Although four officers were involved in the incident, only three engaged in the exchange of gunfire. The intense gunfight continued sporadically as the officers pursued Miller on foot, traversing a parking lot and several businesses. The pursuit finally led them to the intersection of North Beach and Highway 121, where Miller crossed under an overpass.

After losing sight of Miller momentarily, the officers quickly regrouped and resumed following him in their vehicles. A real-time crime center camera captured Miller stumbling over a storm drain and falling onto a sidewalk while still holding a gun. Within seconds, he sat up and tragically shot himself in the head.

Immediate Response and Investigation

Approximately one minute later, the officers located Miller and provided immediate medical assistance. He was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival. A handgun and multiple loaded magazines were found near Miller’s body.

Fortunately, no officers or bystanders suffered any injuries during the incident. Noakes mentioned that the officers had just begun investigating Miller’s potential connection to the burglar alarm call when the pursuit unfolded. However, they soon discovered that Miller had an active warrant for a parole violation related to a drug charge.

Officers Praised for Their Bravery

Chief Noakes commended his officers for their exemplary conduct in the face of a dangerous and deadly situation. He expressed pride in their ability to remain aware of their surroundings while returning fire and for continuing to give verbal commands to Miller, even after being fired upon.

While acknowledging the tragic loss of life, Noakes expressed gratitude that no additional lives, including those of the officers and residents, were lost. The Fort Worth Police Department’s major case and internal affairs units are currently investigating the incident. Upon completion of these investigations, the findings will be forwarded to the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office for standard review.

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