Louisiana State Police Release Footage of Fatal Traffic Stop
Louisiana State Police authorities released the dash-cam video as well as police body-cam footage of the arrest attempt of 45 year old Derrick Kittling from November 6th that resulted in Kittling's death.
The video shows Kittling, of Alexandria, LA involved in a fight with Rapides Parish Sheriff's Deputy during a traffic stop. During the physical alteration Kittling was able to wrestle the deputy's taser away from him, said Lt. Melissa Matey.
“As the physical struggled ensued, the Deputy discharged his duty weapon striking Kittling,” said Matey. “Kittling was transported to a local hospital for treatment, but ultimately succumbed to his injuries,” said Matey.
Louisiana State Police Colonel Lamar Davis reported that the State Police is conducting a thorough investigation that will be fair and impartial.
“We’re not going to take any shortcuts, we are going to turn over every stone we can to make sure we get the facts of this investigation,” said Davis.
According to Davis, Kittling was pulled over in a residential area due a violation of window tinting, as well as a modified exaust system.
“And I really don’t want to comment because this is difficult and my heart goes out to the family and to be honest with you that’s not for me to comment on,” said Davis.
The following is a statement from Sheriff Mark Wood in reference to the release of the Louisiana State Police Critical Incident Community Briefing.
My responsibility as Sheriff is to be transparent and accountable to the citizens of Rapides Parish as well as our deputies. I support the release of these videos to ensure the public has a transparent and unbiased account of what occurred.
Today’s release of the videos of the incident has provided context of what occurred.
Anytime a serious injury or death is involved, it is a tragedy and families on both sides are impacted forever.
I would like to express my condolences to the Kittling family and ask for prayers of healing for our community and everyone involved.
I would like to thank the community for their patience in allowing the Louisiana State Police to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.
And last, I would like to thank Colonel Lamar Davis and all of the investigators and troopers involved in this investigation for their integrity and professionalism during this very difficult time.
Below is the video released by the LSP. Viewer discretion is advised.