According to police, Casas had four felony warrants and eight prior arrests, including arrests involving weapons and assaultive offenses.
DALLAS — Editor’s note: Viewer discretion is advised.
The Dallas Police Department released surveillance footage and body camera video on Friday, Oct. 17, showing the moments leading up and during a fatal officer-involved shooting at the Mustang Inn, where 41-year-old Raul Casas died after an encounter with police.
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According to police, two officer recognized Casas, and used an automated license plate reader to identify a vehicle associated with Casas near Clarendon Drive and Beckley Avenue at approximately 11:15 a.m. Police say for a time, officers lost track of Casas and later located the vehicle at the Mustang Inn, in part using flock technology.
At approximately 12:17 p.m., officers saw Casas step outside a motel room before returning inside. Officer James Smith approached and directed him to come outside, according to the department.
Police say Casas then exited the room carrying a rifle and pointed it at Smith, who ordered him to drop the weapon and took cover behind a vehicle. Authorities said Casas then turned the rifle toward Officer Rafael Narvaez.
Smith fired two rounds, striking Casas once, according to police. Casas fell to the ground and dropped a handgun. The released body camera footage reportedly shows Casas picking up the handgun before shooting himself moments later.
Dallas Fire-Rescue personnel attempted lifesaving measures, but Casas was pronounced dead at the scene at approximately 12:31 p.m. No officers were injured.
Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux addressed the incident following the release of the footage, saying officers have a responsibility to protect the community. He also encouraged individuals with outstanding warrants to turn themselves in.
According to police, Casas had four felony warrants and eight prior arrests, including arrests involving weapons and assaultive offenses.
Despite the release of the footage, Casas’ family says questions remain. Family members told WFAA they believe some of the information they have received about the incident has been inconsistent and that they intend to seek additional answers.
The department’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the shooting. The Dallas County District Attorney’s Office also responded to the scene and will conduct an independent investigation. The Office of Community Police Oversight was also notified and responded.
Dallas Police say this marks the department’s 11th officer-involved shooting this year.