Fatal Shooting Investigation: Texarkana Officer Cleared

The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department says an internal review has cleared one of their officers following an officer-involved shooting earlier this month on Dooley Ferry Road outside of Texarkana in Miller County.

We reported the incident that happened on April 12, 2026, as officers worked alongside the Arkansas State Police and the Miller County Sheriff’s Office to serve a felony warrant on 46-year-old Tommy Sevier.

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Authorities say Trooper Miller alerted our area law enforcement that Sevier could be traveling our area and might be driving a white GMC Terrain. Officers began patrolling, and around 6:23 PM, Trooper Miller located the vehicle traveling west on Dooley Ferry Road. Multiple agencies responded to assist.

According to the press release, Trooper Miller and other officers made contact with Sevier at his vehicle. Sevier seemed agitated and made statements that he did not want to return to prison. Trooper Miller tried to de-escalate the situation and then asked if Sevier had a firearm. Sevier said yes and then he handed over one gun.

As the situation continued, a deputy with the Miller County Sheriff’s Office arrived and positioned a patrol unit in front of Sevier’s vehicle. Moments later, Sevier pulled out a second gun and pointed it at himself.

Trooper Miller ordered Sevier to drop the weapon. Sevier attempted to fire the gun, but it initially malfunctioned. He then manipulated the firearm and discharged it, resulting in what investigators later confirmed was a fatal self-inflicted wound.

According to the press release,

(TAPD) Officer Jackson Thornell was positioned behind the scene. When he heard the gunshot, he thought that Sevier was firing at officers. He discharged his weapon and struck Sevier in a non-critical area. Investigators later confirmed that the wound was not the cause of death.

The officers began life-saving efforts before Sevier was transported to a local hospital, where he later died.

The Texarkana, Arkansas Police Department conducted an internal review and an external investigation by the Arkansas State Police, both of which found that Officer Thornell followed department policy. Connie Mitchell, prosecutor for the Eighth South Judicial District, also determined the use of force was justified.

Officials say the situation unfolded quickly and was highly stressful for everyone involved. All the officers involved are commended for staying focused and attempting for a peaceful outcome.

The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department says it recognizes this is a difficult time for Sevier’s family and is asking the community to please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.