Pursuit Suspect Shot, Killed In McIntosh County After Firing At Authorities

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation says a man is dead after being shot by officers and deputies following a chase. Investigators say the suspect first fired shots at law enforcement when he tried to get away on foot.

The OSBI says a McIntosh County Sheriff’s deputy tried to pull over the driver of a car around 10:30 p.m. on Sunday for a traffic violation. Investigators say the driver stopped at first but then took off, leading deputies on a chase.

Checotah Police were asked to assist deputies as the suspect continued onto Highway 69. Investigators say the driver pulled onto I-40, even sideswiping patrol cars as he tried to get away.

The OSBI says the driver pulled off the road and tried to run into the woods but couldn’t get away. Investigators say the man pulled out a gun and fired at law enforcement, who returned fire and shot him.

Authorities recovered a gun from the man, but other details are still under investigation. The OSBI says officers have to make quick decisions in these situations.

"You’ve got people driving along the interstate that could be in danger from this person with a gun firing at law enforcement,” said Brook Arbeitman, a spokesperson for the OSBI. “They could hit a bystander.”

The FBI asked the OSBI to get involved because the driver is a tribal citizen.

His name has not been released.