Harker Heights Police Identify Temple, TX Man Killed in Officer Involved Shooting

(Harker Heights, Texas) - UPDATE, 2-23-23, 10:01 AM: Harker Heights PD has released the name of the driver they say was fatally shot by an officer earlier this week.

The man was identified as 45-year-old Joe Michael Goss of Temple.

HHPD has not yet released the identity of the officer. The case remains under investigation by the Texas Rangers.

The Texas Rangers are investigating the Harker Heights Police Department after an officer was involved in a shooting on the morning of Tuesday, February 21st.

Details Regarding The Shooting

Harker Heights Police Chief Betiale Hawkins II reports that the officer (whose name was not released Tuesday) conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Indian Trail and East Veterans Memorial Boulevard around 1 AM. The suspect reportedly stopped for the officer at first, but then fled, leading to a chase.

Chief Hawkins said the suspect lost control of their vehicle near Indian Trail and Beeline, then started approaching the officer with a knife, threatening him. The officer then reportedly fired his gun at the suspect.

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Fatal Injuries

The officer involved is said to have attempted to resuscitate the suspect until Harker Heights EMS arrived at the scene around 1:10 AM. The suspect passed away at 3:27 AM, and was pronounced dead at the scene by Justice of the Peace Gregory Johnson.

The suspect's name had not been released as of midday Tuesday, and an autopsy was ordered to be performed.

What Happened to the Officer?

According to Chief Hawkins, the officer has been placed on administrative leave. He was not injured, but policy of using deadly force requires him to be on leave while the matter is investigated.

The Texas Rangers are handling the investigation. As this is a developing story, we will have more information as it becomes available.