Death by Cop 2021-2025
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Dennis Ryan Thornton
Age : 43
Gender : Male
Race : White
Date : 08/06/2024
Location : Interstate 35 overpass above Posey Road near Mile Marker 200
City : San Marcos
County : Hays
State : Texas
Agency : San Marcos Police Department
Officer(s) :Not Disclosed
Cause of Death : Medical emergency
Event : Died during arrest from taser and unknown mechanisms
OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :
On 08/06/2024, San Marcos Police responded to numerous 911 calls reporting a man on the Interstate 35 overpass above Posey Road throwing objects, yelling, and behaving erratically. Officers encountered 43-year-old Dennis Thornton of Leander standing near the concrete barrier separating the northbound and southbound lanes. When an officer attempted to make contact, Thornton did not respond and moved toward the officer. The officer deployed a Taser, causing Thornton to fall to the ground. Officers attempted to handcuff Thornton, but he continued struggling for approximately two minutes before they secured both wrists. Officers then applied a wrap restraint that secured his arms and legs before transporting him to Christus Santa Rosa Hospital. While in police custody, Thornton suffered a medical emergency. Hospital staff measured his body temperature at approximately 108 degrees. Despite treatment, he was pronounced dead at 8:20 p.m. The Texas Rangers, the San Marcos Police Department Criminal Investigations Division, and the department's Office of Professional Conduct opened investigations into the death. Public reporting available afterward did not identify any officers, announce criminal charges, or report disciplinary action related to the incident.
SOURCE LINKS :
https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/article/smpd-arrest-death-19626912.php
https://www.sanmarcosrecord.com/news/smpd-releases-more-details-custody-death
