By John Dobberstein, Editor
A police-involved shooting last fall in Broken Arrow has been ruled justified by the Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office after a review of the evidence.
On Nov. 29, the Broken Arrow Police Department responded to a 911 call to a home in the 1300 block of West Gary Place, where a family member reported they needed assistance for a “medical, but mental” incident, according to a statement the department released Tuesday.
They reported an escalating mental health crisis involving 46-year-old Samuel Flanagan, who was armed with a machete and threatening self-harm at their residence, police said.
As officers arrived, the situation deteriorated rapidly and BAPD officer Danny James, who was wearing an activated body-worn camera, encountered multiple people at the residence, including two juveniles, outside and near the home, police said.
During the encounter, police said Flanagan emerged from the house within 5 feet of James, armed with a machete and a meat cleaver, making explicit threats and disregarding repeated commands from James, according to police.
As he advanced within 8 feet of two officers wrestling with a family member of Flangan on the ground — placing officers and family members in immediate danger, police said — James fired one shot, striking Flanagan in the chest.
Broken Arrow police said they immediately began life-saving measures and Flanagan was transported to the hospital, where he later died. A toxicology report later revealed the presence of methamphetamine in Flanagan’s system.
Screenshot from BAPD body camera footage of police wrestling on the ground with Flanagan’s family as Flangan emergences from his house with weapons. CLICK TO SEE VIDEO.
Following an independent review, Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler concluded the use of deadly force was legally justified and no criminal charges will be filed.
Broken Arrow police released the full body-worn camera footage of the incident Tuesday that included descriptions and contextual information, “to ensure public understanding of the sequence of events.”
“We extend our deepest sympathies and support to all those affected by the events of November 29, 2024. We recognize the pain that comes with loss and send our heartfelt condolences. We also acknowledge the emotional toll that critical incidents can take and remain committed to transparency, safety, and the trust that binds us together,”
“We are reminded that law enforcement officers often face rapidly evolving, dangerous situations that require split-second decisions,” BAPD said in a statement. “While we regret the tragic outcome, we stand behind the professionalism of our officers and the integrity of the investigative process. Our thoughts remain with the family, our officers, and all members of our community impacted by this tragic event.”
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