Arlington Police have released body camera footage and additional details regarding last week’s fatal police shooting, emphasizing the importance of compliance and cooperation with law enforcement.
The incident occurred on Feb. 8 when an unnamed Arlington Police officer fatally shot 49-year-old Sean Daniel McKay during a traffic stop along Interstate 20. The department made public a video of the shooting, stating that it depicted McKay disobeying the officer’s commands to exit his vehicle and drop his gun.
Chief of Police Al Jones stated that McKay was pulled over due to an illegal license plate cover and erratic driving behavior. Despite the officer signaling for McKay to exit to the right, McKay crossed four lanes of traffic and stopped on the left shoulder.
During a press conference, Chief Jones showcased body camera footage from the motorcycle officer who initiated the traffic stop. While the officer’s name has not been released, it was confirmed that he was an eight-year veteran of the department.
In the video, the officer is seen pulling over in front of McKay and instructing him to exit the vehicle. As the officer approaches the driver’s door, it opens, but it’s unclear if it was opened by McKay or the officer. The officer immediately commands the driver to place his hands on the steering wheel.
McKay attempts to explain that he had a green arrow when passing through the light, but the officer disputes this claim. The situation escalates as McKay refuses to turn off the car and step out, repeatedly stating he’s not doing anything wrong.
Despite repeated requests from the officer, McKay refuses to comply and is heard saying “Don’t put your hands on me” as the officer attempts to remove him from the car. The tension rises when McKay moves to the passenger side of the vehicle, and the officer notices a gun in McKay’s hand.
The officer issues commands for McKay to raise his hands, but McKay refuses and is heard saying, “Don’t do it, man!” When McKay appears to point with his left hand, the officer fires three shots, fatally striking McKay.
McKay, who was accompanied by his dog, was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. The dog was unharmed.
Chief Jones addressed concerns about the officer’s language and actions, emphasizing the importance of compliance during such encounters. He clarified that McKay’s criminal history prohibited him from legally possessing a firearm.
Investigations into the shooting, both criminal and administrative, are ongoing.
