The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division is investigating an officer-involved shooting that resulted in the death of a Miller County man Sunday evening.
According to authorities, the incident occurred around 6:15 p.m. on April 12 along State Highway 296, just east of Texarkana.
An ASP trooper initiated a traffic stop on a GMC SUV after confirming the driver, Tommy Ray Sevier, 46, had an active felony warrant. Officers with the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department responded to assist.
During the stop, Sevier was informed of the reason for the traffic violation but refused multiple commands to exit the vehicle. Authorities say the situation escalated when gunfire was exchanged between Sevier and a TAPD officer. Sevier was struck during the exchange.
Officers immediately rendered aid at the scene and requested emergency medical services. Sevier was transported to a local hospital, where he later died.
The Arkansas State Crime Laboratory will determine the official manner and cause of death.
Prior Criminal History
Sevier had a significant criminal history in Miller County stemming from a 2005 case involving the deaths of two Texarkana men.
Court records show Sevier was convicted of arson, two counts of abuse of a corpse, and two counts of hindering apprehension, and was sentenced as a habitual offender to a total of 86 years in prison.
The charges were connected to an incident in which two victims were found inside a burned vehicle in a rural area near Doddridge. Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set to conceal evidence related to the killings.
Authorities at the time also charged Sevier alongside his sister in connection with the deaths, with investigators alleging efforts were made to destroy evidence following the murders.
Ongoing Investigation
ASP CID special agents are continuing the investigation into Sunday’s shooting and will submit a case file to the Miller County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
The prosecutor will determine whether the officer’s use of force was consistent with Arkansas law.
The investigation remains ongoing.
