Brett Marshall Smiley : “Shawnee Police Officer Cleared in QuikTrip Shooting”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Shawnee police shooting cleared
2. QuikTrip hostage situation investigation

A Shawnee police officer faced no criminal charges for fatally shooting a man who held a group of people hostage after firing a gun in a gas station in February. Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe stated that the officer acted appropriately in response to the threat posed by the man, identified as Brett Marshall Smiley. An autopsy revealed methamphetamines in Smiley’s system, along with a history of substance abuse and mental health issues. The officer’s use of deadly force was deemed justified. The incident, which took place at a QuikTrip location, was investigated by the Johnson County Officer Involved Critical Incident Investigation Team.

The Shawnee Police Officer’s Heroic Act

A Shawnee police officer has been cleared of any criminal charges after a harrowing incident in February that ended in a fatal shooting. Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe made the announcement on Monday, stating that the officer’s actions were justified.

The Incident at QuikTrip

The shooting took place at the QuikTrip location on Shawnee Mission Parkway on Feb. 18. The man who was fatally shot, identified as Brett Marshall Smiley, had allegedly fired a gun inside the gas station and held several people hostage. According to Howe, Smiley pointed a gun at responding officers before one of them fired at him.

Tragic Circumstances

An autopsy revealed that Smiley had methamphetamines in his system at the time of his death. Family members also indicated that Smiley had a history of substance abuse and mental health issues. Howe mentioned that the man had a criminal record, raising questions about how he obtained the firearm.

Prior Incidents

Law enforcement had prior encounters with Smiley earlier that day. He had reportedly visited a Hardee’s location in Olathe, where he made disturbing demands and later fired shots along the K-7 highway. Six spent casings found along the highway were linked to the gun Smiley carried at the QuikTrip.

The Hostage Situation

At the QuikTrip, Smiley entered the store with a 9 mm handgun and fired a shot into the ceiling. He then took a woman hostage and expressed confusion and the need for a hostage. Police arrived on the scene and confronted Smiley, leading to the fatal shooting.

Body Camera Footage

Body camera footage released by Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe showed the tense moments leading up to the shooting. The video captured Smiley pointing a gun at the officers before he was shot.

Police Chief’s Acknowledgment

Shawnee Police Chief Sam Larson commended the officers for their swift and decisive actions that day. He stated that their response was textbook and undoubtedly saved lives and prevented further injuries.

Investigation Details

The investigation into the incident was conducted by the Johnson County Officer Involved Critical Incident Investigation Team. The team thoroughly reviewed the circumstances surrounding the shooting to determine the officer’s actions were justified.

In conclusion, the Shawnee police officer’s bravery and quick thinking in a high-pressure situation undoubtedly prevented further harm. The community is grateful for the officers’ dedication to protecting and serving, even in the face of danger.