Ellis County Sheriff’s Department investigating officer involved shooting in Midlothian

ELLIS COUNTY – The Ellis County Sheriff’s Department is taking the lead investigating an officer involved shooting that happened in Midlothian last week, per the request of Midlothian Police Chief Carl Smith.

The incident occurred Friday, May 17 at approximately 3:47 a.m. at the Mid Texas International Center Auto Park, located in the 100 block of Center Drive.

A Midlothian police officer investigating a vehicle theft in progress confronted the suspects “attempting to steal multiple vehicles from the business.”

The unnamed officer, was investigating the theft when suspects attempted to harm the officer with their vehicle – at which time the officer fired his weapon at the suspects.

According to a Midlothian PD news release, the suspects fled from Mid-Texas Auto Park in a vehicle from the Auto Park, and a chase ensued.

The chase led Midlothian officers into Dallas, where the suspects left the vehicle and fled on foot. 

The suspects were not apprehended and remain at large. 

A sheriff’s department spokesman said, “When identified and apprehended, the suspects are expected to be charged with attempted capital murder of a police officer.”

The Tri-County Auto Theft Task Force will be leading the investigation into the attempted theft and damage of the multiple vehicles.

The involved officer received minor injuries during the incident. He was later transported to a local hospital where he was evaluated and released.

It is unknown if any suspects were struck by gunfire.

Midlothian Police Chief Carl Smith did indicate per department policy the involved officer will be placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the internal investigation.

This investigation is currently active and ongoing. No additional information is available at this time. 

Individuals with information relevant to this investigation may contact the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division at (972) 937-6060 or Crime Stoppers of Ellis County tip line at (972) 937-PAYS (7297).