Warning: The above video features graphic language.
A suspect wanted in connection with several crimes and who allegedly led officers on a high-speed pursuit last month in Texas was shot and taken into custody Monday, after verbally threatening police and reportedly attempting to grab an officer’s sidearm.
Todd Sturgis Wanted in Multiple Crimes
The Lufkin Police Department identified the suspect as 26-year-old Todd Sturgis. According to police, Sturgis led officers on a high-speed pursuit last month after they attempted to take him into custody on Tarrant County warrants for kidnapping, evading arrest and delivery of a controlled substance. He managed to evade capture.
The incident resulted in Lufkin Police issuing a warrant for evading arrest.
Lufkin Police said they received an anonymous tip Monday that Sturgis was at the Pinewood Park Apartments.
Officers responded to the location. Upon reaching the apartment, officers met a woman at the door who reportedly denied knowing where Sturgis’ was. Police said she eventually allowed officers to search the apartment.
Upon inspecting the apartment, officers found Sturgis in a bedroom.
How the Todd Sturgis Shooting Unfolded
When officers attempted to take Sturgis into custody, police said he refused to show his hands and continually reached under a bed and mattress; the above body cam vide confirms this.
Video also shows Sturgis verbally assaulting officers and challenging them.
Upon standing up and charging, officers use a Taser on Sturgis. It proved ineffective, according to police
Police said Sturgis then attempted to take an officer’s gun. The struggle, seen above, resulted in the officer firing a single round, which struck the Sturgis in the torso.
Post-Shooting Recap
According to police, an ambulance took Sturgis to a local hospital. He is expected to recover.
Police said the officer who fired the round was uninjured. However, according to police, a second officer suffered a minor fracture when a Taser barb lodged in his finger during the struggle.
Sturgis faces three additional charges from Lufkin Police Department, including two counts of disarming a peace officer and resisting arrest.
According to a release, “The officer involved will be on administrative leave with pay until the Texas Rangers have completed their investigation into the incident, per Department policy.”
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