Shaun Lucas, the Wolfe City police officer who shot and killed Jonathan Price on Saturday (October 3), has been arrested and charged with murder.
Jonathan, who has been described as a “hometown hero,” “a standup guy,” and a “mentor who worked with children,” stepped in to help a woman who was involved in a domestic violence situation at a gas station.
Things reportedly escalated between him and the abuser, but had calmed down according to an eye witness.
When Lucas arrived on the scene, he attempted to detain Jonathan Price, who walked away from him.
That’s when Officer Lucas used his Taser, then fired his weapon striking Jonathan.
Price later died at the hospital. He was 31.
The Texas Rangers, who are responsible for investigating the shooting, released the following statement:
At approximately 8:24 p.m. on Oct. 3, 2020, Wolfe City Police Officer Shaun Lucas responded to a disturbance call at the 100 block of Santa Fe Street for a possible fight in progress. Officer Lucas made contact with a man, later identified as 31-year-old Jonathan Price, who was reportedly involved in the disturbance.
Officer Lucas attempted to detain Price, who resisted in a non-threatening posture and began walking away. Officer Lucas deployed his TASER, followed by discharging his service weapon striking Price. EMS was notified and Price was transported to Hunt Regional Hospital, where he later died.
The preliminary investigation indicates that the actions of Officer Lucas were not objectionably reasonable. The Texas Rangers have charged Officer Lucas with the offense of Murder and booked him into the Hunt County Jail. This investigation is being conducted by the Texas Rangers, with the cooperation of the Wolfe City Police Department and the Hunt County District Attorney’s Office. No additional information is being released at this time.
Civil rights attorney Lee Merritt said the family is “grappling with the reality that they’re never going to see Jonathan again.”
Mr. Price did not become violent, but there was a male who was aggressive towards a woman. He intervened, and the situation was resolved before law enforcement arrived, according to witnesses. Why this officer still felt the need to Tase and shoot Jonathan is beyond comprehension.
Shaun Lucas’ bond has been set at $1 million.
I will keep you updated on this story.
My sincerest condolences and prayers go out to the Price family.
Source: CBS 11
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