Video: Fatal Struggle in Dollar Tree Leads to Phoenix Police Shooting

On the evening of October 20, a confrontation at a Dollar Tree in west Phoenix escalated tragically. Phoenix police officers were dispatched to the location to address a trespassing incident involving 31-year-old Essex Jackson, who was allegedly intoxicated and armed with a large sheathed knife.

The situation quickly deteriorated as officers attempted to subdue Jackson. During the altercation, he gained control of one officer’s Taser, intensifying the struggle. Officer Ryan Small, faced with the threat, drew his service weapon and discharged it six times, fatally wounding Jackson.

This incident raises critical concerns about police response protocols and the management of intoxicated individuals. Investigations into the event are ongoing as authorities seek to understand the circumstances surrounding this fatal encounter.