The Phoenix Police Department has released body-camera video related to a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred inside a retail store in October 2024. The incident resulted in the death of 31-year-old Essex Jackson, according to reporting by AZFamily.
Authorities state the incident remains under investigation.
Incident Timeline
According to police and released video footage, the incident occurred on October 20, 2024, at approximately 8:00 a.m., when officers responded to a call regarding a trespassing individual reportedly armed with a large knife at a Dollar Tree store.
Inside the store, officers located the individual and issued commands for compliance.
- The individual moved into a back storeroom area and climbed onto stacked boxes
- Officers attempted to take him into custody after deploying TASER devices
- The individual broke away and ran back into the main store area
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Physical Struggle and TASER Deployment
Police state that officers and a store security guard pursued the individual through the store.
- An officer attempted to physically detain the individual but lost grip and fell into a display
- The individual was subsequently tased and fell to the ground
- He then stood back up and continued to resist officers
According to police, during continued efforts to take the individual into custody:
- An officer attempted a drive-stun with a TASER
- The individual allegedly grabbed the TASER
- Police report the TASER was then used against the officer
Use of Deadly Force
Body-camera footage released by police shows a male officer disengaging from the struggle, drawing his duty weapon, and firing multiple rounds.
The individual was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Police report that a fixed-blade knife was recovered at the location.
Identification of the Individual
Authorities identified the individual as 31-year-old Essex Jackson.
No additional background information has been released regarding the individual at this time.
Evidence and Scene Findings
According to the Phoenix Police Department:
- A fixed-blade knife was recovered at the scene
- Body-camera footage documents the sequence of events
- The incident occurred inside a retail store during business hours
Current Status
- The shooting remains under active investigation
- Body-camera footage has been publicly released
- No information has been released regarding administrative status of the involved officers
- No additional findings or determinations have been announced
FAQ
When did the incident occur?
The incident occurred on October 20, 2024, at approximately 8:00 a.m.
Where did the incident take place?
Inside a Dollar Tree store in Phoenix, Arizona.
What prompted the police response?
Officers responded to a report of a trespassing individual allegedly armed with a large knife.
Was less-lethal force used prior to the shooting?
According to police, TASER devices were deployed during attempts to take the individual into custody.
What led to the use of deadly force?
Police report that during the struggle, the individual allegedly gained control of a TASER and used it against an officer before the shooting occurred.
Is the incident still under investigation?
Yes. Authorities confirm the investigation is ongoing.
Continue the Analysis
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