Three police officers are being investigated for use of deadly force, and an Ash Flat man has been shot during a near three-hour standoff Wednesday night near Hardy.According to a news release from the Arkansas State Police (ASP), Hardy authorities received a report 28-year-old Jared White of Ash Flat was reportedly seen outside a residence on U.S Highway 62/412 with a gun. The responding officer arrived on scene and White allegedly fired at the officer.The officer was not struck by the gunfire and requested additional law enforcement assistance. White allegedly entered a camper trailer on the property to begin the standoff, as authorities attempted to negotiate a peaceful surrender via telephone.
Approximately three hours later, White allegedly exited the trailer while brandishing the weapon and fired a second time at authorities, with law enforcement returning fire. White was reportedly in stable condition when he was airlifted to an area hospital.
The ASP says at least two officers – which included one from Hardy, one from Highland and two from the Sharp County Sheriff’s Office – fired their service weapons. None of the officers were injured during the incident.
State police say the names of the local police officers and sheriff’s deputies, as well as their administrative status with the respective department, should be addressed to the chief law officer at each department.
Special agents of the ASP Investigation Division are conducting the investigation that will be used by the county prosecuting attorney to determine whether the use of deadly force by the officers and deputies was consistent with Arkansas law.
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