Arkansas – The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division (CID) is investigating an officer-involved shooting involving Arkansas State Park Rangers that occurred Monday, May 25, in PuIaski County.
According to Arkansas State Police, Pulaski County Dispatch received a 911 call around 6:15 p.m. reporting a possible medical emergency at a residence in the 22000 block of State Highway 300 in RoIand.
When first responders arrived, they found a man suffering from a large laceration to his head. While providing treatment, responders observed another individual nearby holding a large machete. Concerned for their safety, responders requested immediate law enforcement assistance and withdrew from the scene.
Because of the rural location and its proximity to Pinnacle Mountain State Park, three Arkansas State Park Rangers responded to the residence. Upon arrival, the rangers encountered the armed individual, identified as Matthew Garrett, 31, of Judsonia.
State police said Garrett advanced toward the rangers while holding the machete. During the encounter, the rangers fired their weapons, striking Garrett. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The injured man was transported by MEMS to UAMS, where he is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Garrett’s body was taken to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, where officials will determine the cause and manner of death.
ASP CID special agents are investigating the shooting and will submit a case file to the Pulaski County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, which will determine whether the use of deadly force was consistent with Arkansas law.