By Trend News Line 2024-07-03 18:45:05.
Man Dies in Police Custody After Crashing Stolen Pickup
The Austin Police Department recently released footage of a tragic incident that unfolded in South Austin, where a man named Jermaine Joseph Sims, 35, died while in police custody. The events leading up to his death began when multiple 911 callers reported Sims behaving erratically inside a Circle K gas station on South Interstate 35.
Erratic Behaviour Leads to Tragic Consequences
According to reports, witnesses described Sims as “acting erratic” and “throwing things” inside the gas station. Concerned citizens called for police assistance, as well as emergency medical and mental health services for Sims. Shortly after the initial reports, Sims made a fateful decision to steal a pickup truck from the gas station, setting off a series of events that would ultimately end in tragedy.
Wrong-Way Crash and Violent Confrontation
Sims drove the stolen pickup truck onto the southbound frontage road of Interstate 35 at Slaughter Lane in the wrong direction, causing a head-on collision with multiple vehicles. The ensuing crash left some occupants with minor injuries. Police officers Brandon Langer and David Lewis arrived at the scene and successfully apprehended Sims, who was reportedly walking around nude at the time of his arrest.
Struggle and Uncertain Circumstances
Video footage from Langer’s body-worn camera captured the intense moments leading up to Sims’ arrest. The video shows the officers restraining Sims on the ground, struggling to subdue him as he resists their efforts. Despite their repeated instructions for him to “stay down” and “relax,” Sims continues to resist, eventually admitting to drug use during the confrontation.
Medical Emergency and Tragic Outcome
After being taken into custody, Sims was transported to a local hospital by EMS personnel. Tragically, he was pronounced deceased at 6:04 p.m., just over two hours after the initial incident. The exact cause of Sims’ death will be determined by the Travis County medical examiner, as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding his untimely passing.
Investigation and Accountability
As Sims’ death occurred while he was in police custody, the incident is being treated as an in-custody death and is under thorough investigation by the Austin Police Department. Both officers involved in Sims’ arrest were unharmed during the altercation, and no other individuals were injured as a result of the incident.
Conclusion
The tragic events that unfolded on that fateful day in South Austin serve as a sobering reminder of the complexities and risks inherent in law enforcement. As the investigation into Jermaine Joseph Sims’ death continues, authorities are working diligently to uncover the truth behind the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking outcome..
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