DENTON, Texas – A tragic incident unfolded at a pickleball court on Sunday afternoon, leading to the fatal shooting of a man by a Denton police officer. The Texas Rangers are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, which occurred during a welfare check.
The confrontation began around 12:10 p.m. when Denton Public Safety Communications received multiple 911 calls about an adult male allegedly exhibiting signs of intoxication at the pickleball court located in the 1100 block of Riney Road. Upon arrival, officers discovered the individual on the north side of the courts, where he had climbed onto a fence while wielding a metal rod.
According to police reports, the man threatened the officers, insisting they would “have to kill him.” Efforts to de-escalate the situation verbally were unsuccessful, and he subsequently descended from the fence, charging at the officers while still holding the rod.
In an attempt to subdue him, one officer deployed a Taser, but it failed to incapacitate the suspect. Subsequently, another officer discharged their firearm multiple times, striking the man several times.
Emergency medical assistance was rendered immediately, and the man was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office is set to release the identity of the deceased once notifications have been made to family members. Fortunately, no officers or bystanders sustained injuries during the incident.
Following departmental protocols, the officer involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave. The Denton Police Department is conducting an internal review, while the Texas Rangers are leading the criminal investigation.
