Beaumont, Texas – Manuel Arteaga, a 42-year-old resident of Beaumont, was shot and killed by police officers on Saturday evening after allegedly approaching them with a chainsaw. The incident took place around 8:20 p.m. on Harriot Street near Avenue E.
Officers from the Beaumont Police Department were responding to a disturbance call when they encountered Arteaga. According to Officer Hailey Morrow, police were initially addressing another individual involved in the disturbance when Arteaga approached from behind, wielding a chainsaw.
Despite claims from family members that Arteaga was in the process of turning off the chainsaw, officers reported that he posed an immediate threat, prompting them to open fire. Arteaga was shot multiple times and died at the scene.
Manuel Arteaga’s nephew, Christin Arteaga, described the family’s grief and confusion over the events that led to the shooting. He stated that the family had gathered to cut logs when an argument escalated, leading to the 911 call. According to Christin, the call was unrelated to the chainsaw incident.
Meanwhile, Raul Arteaga, Jr., another individual involved in the disturbance, was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault and Aggravated Assault-Family Violence.
The officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave as the Beaumont Police Department, the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office, and the Texas Rangers conduct an investigation.
The family of Manuel Arteaga remembers him as a devoted father of four and a caring uncle. They are now calling for justice and the arrest of the officer who fired the fatal shots.
Several community members have expressed their thoughts and condolences on social media. Kay Kay, a Facebook user, posted a heartfelt message, expressing sadness over the incident.
The investigation is ongoing, and more information will be released as it becomes available.