Unarmed pastor killed by Killeen TX police

A family is demanding answers after Patrick Warren Sr was fatally shot by Killeen, TX police when they responded to a mental health crisis call.

Mental health crisis

In a press release, authorities say on Jan. 10 at approximately 5:29 p.m. police responded to a 911 psychiatric call of an “emotionally disturbed” person.

The officer initially used a taser, which was ineffective, and then discharged his duty weapon during the encounter, striking the subject, according to the release.

The man was transported to a local hospital where he later died of his injuries.

The release does not reveal the victim’s name nor the reason why a lethal weapon was used.

Patrick Warren Sr was unarmed

According to a post by social activist Shaun King, the man has been identified as Patrick Warren Sr., a local pastor, husband, and father. In the post, King released an almost 2 minute video of the fatal encounter.

Patrick Warren Sr.

In the video, the officer can be seen coming toward the door and announces he is coming in the house.

Lee Merritt, an attorney working with the family, said Warren then asked the officer to leave, which he does.

The video then cuts to Warren walking out of the house waving his arms at the officer. The officer can be heard telling Warren to get on the ground but it appears Warren keeps walking toward him.

The video then cuts to another shot that shows Warren get back up and continue toward the officer. A person from the house can be heard telling Warren to sit down, and asking the officer not to shoot him then three gunshots can be heard.

“I told you not to use a gun,” a person can be heard saying multiple times in the video.

According to Merritt, the officer shot Warren once, then pointed the gun at Warren’s wife, telling her to get back. Merritt said the officer then fired his weapon at Warren again.

Merritt explains Warren’s family had called the police because he was having a mental health crisis. Warren Sr. was also unarmed when he was shot, Merritt added.

Investigation into Patrick Warren Sr’s fatal shooting

The Killeen Police Department Criminal Investigation Division and the Texas Rangers is investigating the fatal incident.

The officer involved, who has not been identified, has been placed on administrative leave, according to the release.

No further details were provided.

“The family of Patrick Warren Sr. demands the immediate firing and arrest of the officer responsible for his death,” Merritt said in a press release. “Bell County District Attorney Henry Garza must be prepared to conduct an independent investigation and prosecution of this officer.”

Merritt also asked that all body camera and dash camera video be released to the family attorneys.

Warren’s family has created a GoFundMe to help with expenses.