Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting in Amarillo: New Details Released in Georgia Street Walmart Incident
The Amarillo Police Department has released new information about a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred late Saturday morning, shedding light on the chain of events that unfolded in the Walmart parking lot on Georgia Street. The incident, which began as a standard welfare check, tragically ended in the death of 35-year-old Justin Lee Crouch.
🔹 Initial Call: Welfare Check Turns Dangerous
According to police reports, officers were dispatched to the Walmart at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, responding to a call regarding a man who appeared unresponsive behind the wheel of a vehicle in the store’s parking lot. Witnesses reported seeing the man slumped over in the driver’s seat for an extended period, prompting concern for his well-being.
When Amarillo police officers arrived, they located the vehicle and attempted to assess the man’s condition. The individual, later identified as Justin Lee Crouch, initially did not respond to verbal commands or tapping on the window. Officers then opened the car door in an effort to provide aid and determine whether he was experiencing a medical emergency, substance impairment, or another crisis.
🔹 Escalation and Use of Force
Authorities say that as officers engaged with Crouch, the situation escalated rapidly. Crouch allegedly became agitated and non-compliant, resisting officers’ attempts to remove him from the vehicle. At some point during the altercation, he reportedly reached for a weapon, prompting an officer to discharge their firearm in defense.
Witnesses at the scene described hearing multiple loud commands from police prior to the gunfire, followed by a single shot. Officers immediately rendered first aid and called for EMS. Crouch was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
🔹 Investigation Underway
The Amarillo Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit, in coordination with the Potter County District Attorney’s Office, is conducting a full review of the incident, including body-worn camera footage, forensic evidence, and witness statements. The officer involved has been placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure during the investigation of use-of-force incidents.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether a firearm was recovered at the scene or if Crouch had any outstanding warrants or known history of criminal activity. Toxicology tests are also pending to determine whether drugs or alcohol were a factor in his behavior.
🔹 Community Response
News of the shooting has drawn strong emotional reactions from the Amarillo community. Some residents have expressed support for the police officers, citing the unpredictable and often dangerous nature of welfare checks, particularly when they involve unresponsive individuals who may be armed. Others have raised concerns about use-of-force protocols, particularly when engaging individuals who may be experiencing a mental health crisis or substance-related impairment.
A small group gathered near the Walmart later that evening to hold a vigil for Crouch, calling for transparency and demanding the release of the bodycam footage once the investigation progresses. Family members of Crouch have also spoken to local media, expressing shock and grief over the sudden loss of their loved one and calling for a thorough, impartial investigation.
🔹 About Justin Lee Crouch
Crouch, 35, was a lifelong Texas resident, known to some in the Amarillo area. While details about his personal life remain limited at this time, friends and family have described him as someone who had faced personal struggles but was loved and valued by those close to him.
🔹 What’s Next
The Amarillo Police Department has pledged to provide updates as the investigation unfolds. The Potter County District Attorney’s Office will determine whether the shooting was legally justified once all evidence has been reviewed.
In the meantime, the department has urged the public to remain patient and avoid speculation until more facts are available.
“This was a tragic situation for everyone involved,” an APD spokesperson stated. “We are committed to conducting a full and transparent investigation and will release further information as soon as it is appropriate to do so.”
Contact Information
Anyone who witnessed the incident or may have relevant information is encouraged to contact the Amarillo Police Special Investigations Unit at (806) 378-9468
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