An Arkansas State Police spokesman said Thursday that the suspect who was shot by a Pine Bluff Police officer on Wednesday was misidentified in a press release Wednesday.
The suspect was initially identified by Pine Bluff Police as Deontae Garrett, 19, but Sadler said investigators now believe the wounded individual is a juvenile who has not been positively identified. The wounded suspect was initially reported being in critical condition after being taken to Jefferson Regional Medical Center but his condition has now been upgraded to stable.
Garrett, who was wanted on multiple felony warrants from Cleveland County surrendered to Pine Bluff officers at about 9 p.m. Wednesday night.
Prosecuting Attorney S. Kyle Hunter requested the state police investigation Wednesday and said Thursday afternoon he has not received any additional information from the state investigators.
According to Sadler, Pine Bluff Police went to 5701 Warmack Street in an attempt to locate Garrett , who was being sought for kidnapping, residential burglary and theft. As one of the officers approached the house, a young man armed with a pistol exited the residence. The officer reportedly ordered the individual to drop the gun and according to initial statements, the individual pointed the gun at the officer who then shot the person.
As per Pine Bluff Police policy, the officer, who has not been identified, was placed on administrative leave with pay pending the outcome of the state police investigation to determine if the use of force by the officer was consistent with state law.
The Professional Standards Division of the Pine Bluff Police Department will also conduct an investigation to determine if department guidelines were followed in the incident.