Durham Police Chief Andrews Voices Support for Officer
DURHAM, NC – Durham Police Chief Patrice Andrews has reaffirmed her support for Corporal Rex McQueen following her review of body-worn camera footage from the officer-involved shooting of 16-year-old Joshua Garcia on November 17. The incident occurred in response to reports of street racing at the Woodcroft Shopping Center, and the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is currently leading the investigation.
Chief Andrews stated that the body-worn camera footage, which has not been released to the public due to state laws requiring a court order, provides clear evidence of the events leading up to and during the confrontation.
“A 16-year-old made a very adult decision to carry a firearm, to possess a firearm, and then made the adult decision to brandish that firearm towards a police officer,” Andrews said.
Summary of Events
- Initial Call: Shortly after midnight on November 17, officers responded to reports of car racing in the Woodcroft Shopping Center. Corporal McQueen arrived and initially sought to disperse the crowd.
- Escalation: Objects, later identified as eggs, were thrown at Corporal McQueen’s vehicle, prompting him to exit and confront the group.
- Armed Suspect: During the ensuing foot chase, Garcia brandished a handgun. Chief Andrews confirmed that McQueen issued at least five verbal commands, including addressing the teen as “son,” urging him to drop the weapon and comply.
- Use of Force: When the suspect refused to comply, McQueen discharged his firearm six times, striking Garcia twice. Chief Andrews emphasized that the teen was not shot in the back, countering claims made by the suspect’s family.
After being shot, Garcia fled into a waiting vehicle, which was stopped by responding officers. Medical aid was rendered before he was transported to a local hospital, where he remains in stable condition.
Charges and Investigation
Garcia faces multiple charges, including:
- Assault with a firearm on a law enforcement officer
- Possession of a handgun by a minor
- Resist, delay, or obstruct a public officer
Chief Andrews noted that additional charges may be filed against others present during the incident.
Officer’s Conduct
Corporal McQueen, a veteran officer with the Durham Police Department since 2006, has been placed on administrative duty, per standard procedure in officer-involved shootings.
Chief Andrews praised McQueen’s professionalism during the encounter. “His demeanor before, during, and after the incident was exemplary,” she said. “It was clear from the video that McQueen was disappointed he had to use force, demonstrating his dedication to resolving the situation as peacefully as possible.”
Ongoing Investigations
The SBI and Durham Police Department’s Professional Standards Division are conducting thorough investigations into the shooting. Chief Andrews stated that no violations of departmental policy on the use of force or community interactions have been observed.
Background on the Incident
Timeline:
- 12:08 a.m., November 17: Officers responded to reports of a “car club” racing.
- Confrontation: After objects were thrown at McQueen’s vehicle, the officer pursued a fleeing suspect who brandished a firearm.
- Shots Fired: McQueen discharged his weapon after repeated commands to drop the firearm were ignored.
- Suspect Fled: Garcia entered a vehicle but was apprehended and provided medical aid before being transported to a hospital.
This incident remains under active investigation. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
About the Durham Police Department
The Durham Police Department is committed to protecting and serving the community with professionalism, integrity, and respect. For more information, please contact the department at (919) 560-4322 or visit the Durham Police Department website.
Photo courtesy of Durham Police Department