Authorities have released the names of the Texas DPS State Trooper and the suspect who were involved in an altercation, resulting in shots fired and one dead, on the evening of September 21.
According to a recent Department of Public Safety press release, the Highway Patrol officer involved in the shooting incident was Trooper Tim Keele.
The suspect, who died at the scene, has been identified as Steven McKenney, 21, of Austin.
At approximately 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Trooper Keele saw a white male sitting on the concrete barrier in the center of U.S. 82 near the Paris Regional Medical Center. The trooper approached the individual near the hospital parking lot to check on his welfare, according to Texas DPS Public Information Officer Mark Tackett.
According to the preliminary investigation, the suspect became belligerent and an altercation ensued. The trooper used his TASER, which allegedly had no effect on the individual, authorities said.
“The trooper was injured during the confrontation to the point that he feared for his life,” Officer Tackett said “The trooper discharged his weapon, the suspect died at the scene.”
The trooper was taken to the Paris Regional Medical Center where he was treated for a dislocated shoulder.
Trooper Keele, 39, was stationed in Paris and has been with the Texas DPS since March of 2007.
The incident is currently under continuing investigation by the Texas Rangers.