Authorities in Amarillo are awaiting the results of an autopsy scheduled for Tuesday to determine how a man died during an officer-involved incident outside a Walmart on Saturday. The deceased has been identified as 42-year-old Justin Lee Crouch. Officials hope the examination will clarify whether Crouch died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound or from police gunfire.
The incident occurred late Saturday morning in the parking lot of the Walmart near the intersection of Interstate 27 and Georgia Street. Around 11:40 a.m., employees at the store contacted police to report a suspicious vehicle. Officers were dispatched to the scene and located Crouch sitting in the vehicle, which appeared to be stationary for an extended period.
According to statements from police, officers attempted to speak with Crouch, but he was unresponsive. One of the officers reportedly observed a firearm inside the vehicle and chose to move to a safer position. Moments later, a single gunshot was heard coming from inside the car. In response, one officer discharged their firearm at the vehicle before officers moved in to assess the situation.
Upon approaching the vehicle, officers found Crouch deceased. Investigators have not confirmed whether he died as a result of the shot fired from inside the vehicle or from the responding officer’s weapon. The autopsy is expected to be a key factor in determining the exact sequence of events and the cause of death.
As of Monday, law enforcement officials have not released further details about the incident, including whether body camera footage exists or if any witnesses observed what occurred. It is also unknown whether the gun inside the vehicle was fired intentionally or accidentally. The identity of the officer who fired the weapon has not been made public.
Incidents involving police use of force typically trigger thorough investigations, including internal reviews and forensic examinations. The outcome of the autopsy will help determine whether additional actions will be necessary or if policy changes are warranted. No other injuries were reported during the incident, and there is no indication that any bystanders were at risk.
The community is now awaiting the findings of the autopsy and further updates from the Amarillo Police Department. As the investigation continues, the case underscores the serious and often unpredictable nature of encounters between law enforcement and individuals believed to be armed.
