The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division is investigating an officer-involved shooting involving Arkansas State Park Rangers that occurred Monday, May 25 near Pinnacle Mountain State Park in Pulaski County Arkansas.
According to Arkansas State Police, Pulaski County Dispatch received a 911 call around 6:15 PM reporting a possible medical emergency at a residence located in the 22000 block of State Highway 300 in Roland Arkansas.
First responders arriving at the scene discovered a man suffering from a large laceration to his head. While providing treatment, responders observed another individual nearby holding a large machete. Officials said responders became concerned for their safety, requested law enforcement assistance, and withdrew from the scene.
Because of the rural location near Pinnacle Mountain State Park, 3 Arkansas State Park Rangers responded to the residence.
Authorities identified the armed subject as Matthew Garrett, 31, of Judsonia Arkansas.
Investigators said Garrett advanced toward rangers while holding the weapon, prompting rangers to fire their weapons, striking Garrett. Garrett died at the scene.
The injured man was transported by MEMS to UAMS Medical Center where officials said he is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Garrett’s body was transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory where the official manner and cause of death will be determined.
Arkansas State Police CID Special Agents will continue investigating the incident before presenting a case file to the Pulaski County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, which will determine whether the use of lethal force was consistent with Arkansas law.
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