Anderson, Indiana — A tense confrontation ended in tragedy on June 1, 2024, when Madison County Sheriff’s Department deputies attempted to serve an arrest warrant on 44-year-old Lataurus Harrison

The events unfolded around 9:00 p.m. outside a residence in the 1600 block of Fairview Street in Anderson. Harrison, who had a history of violent crimes, was wanted for violating the terms of his home detention and probation related to his 2023 conviction for strangulation, domestic battery, and sexual battery.

Harrison’s legal troubles date back to a plea deal in March 2023, where multiple serious charges, including rape and attempted rape, were dismissed in exchange for his guilty plea. As part of the agreement, Harrison received a one-year probation sentence and 180 days of home detention.

Deputies found Harrison sitting in a parked car and quickly surrounded the vehicle, issuing numerous commands for him to show his hands. Harrison complied only sporadically, continuing to talk on his cellphone and make suspicious movements. The situation escalated when officers discovered the car was locked and issued additional commands for Harrison to unlock the vehicle or exit it. Despite these commands, Harrison remained uncooperative.

The turning point came when Harrison reached for his pocket. Deputy Brizendine, tasked with keeping a close watch, shouted, “He’s reaching for his pocket! Get out of your pocket!” Though the angle of Brizendine’s bodycam did not capture the exact moment, subsequent frames showed Harrison pointing a black handgun at the deputies.

In response to the immediate threat, Deputy Brizendine fired his weapon 10 times, striking Harrison with seven rounds. Deputies promptly called for emergency services and attempted life-saving measures, but Harrison was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital. An autopsy confirmed that Harrison succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds, including one that pierced his heart.

A search of Harrison’s vehicle revealed a semi-automatic handgun on the front seat. Authorities are now investigating how Harrison, a convicted violent felon, came to possess the firearm.

This incident highlights the dangers law enforcement officers face when dealing with armed suspects and underscores the critical importance of compliance with officer commands during police interactions.