ARKANSAS STATE POLICE
MENA – The Arkansas State Police is investigating an officer involved shooting that occurred in Mena on Feb. 16. Special Agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division were requested by Polk County authorities to investigate the use of deadly force by a local law enforcement officer.
At approximately 12 p.m., a Mena Police officer approached an individual outside a local convenience store located at 1513 Reeves Avenue.
During the encounter a physical altercation evolved, leading to the suspect fleeing on-foot and dropping a handgun.
Initial statements from police indicate the fleeing suspect turned to pick-up the gun and simultaneous commands were reportedly given by police for the man to stop and move away from the gun.
The commands were reportedly ignored leading to the police officer firing his gun.
The suspect was transported to a local hospital where he died. Shawn Henry Allen Dickens, age 30, has been identified as the individual who died Tuesday during the officer involved shooting incident.
The body will be transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory for examination to determine the manner and cause of death.
Questions relating to the identity of the local police officer at the shooting scene, the status of the officer, or information relating to the initial call that brought police to the store should be directed to the Mena Police Department.
The Arkansas State Police will prepare an investigative file relating to the officer involved shooting. The case file will be submitted to the prosecuting attorney to determine if the use of deadly force by a law enforcement officer was consistent with Arkansas laws.
