A game of "fireworks-or-gunshots" is a common joke about American neighborhoods during holidays such as Independence Day or New Years', but sometimes it isn't a joke. This agency-provided bodycam footage depicts two peace officers- one an arson investigator- as they respond to reported violence and gunfire at an Independence Day party, 2023.

After the 911 call in, bodycam footage begins at 0:25, showing a Fort Worth PD officer approaching the scene. He has been partnered with an arson investigator to respond to fireworks-related calls, who is approaching (unseen by the camera) at the officer's 9-o'clock position. At 0:27, a round is fired, which prompts the officer to advance rapidly.

At 0:31, the camera clearly captures a suspect who appears to be holding a weapon on somone who is prostrated behind a vehicle. Before the suspect can fire again and execute his victim, the officer fires three rounds. The suspect falls to the ground, dropping his handgun. Two rounds are heard shortly thereafter, marked in the video. According to the report, at the time of these shots, a second suspect is engaged with the investigator, illuminating him with a weapon-mounted light. Although the investigator was not hit, he exchanged gunfire with the second suspect, and can be heard doing so until the camera-bearing officer assists at 0:55.

The second suspect's weapon light can be seen on the ground to the left at 01:04, with the potential victim to the right. The incident report notes that the victim had been beaten, stabbed and shot prior to the police's intervention. His would-be executioner was declared deceased on-scene by responding EMS. The second gunman was declared deceased at the hospital after transport. Investigation is ongoing regarding other injured parties and witnesses who left the scene without giving statements.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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