Denton Police Investigating Fatal Downtown Shooting
The Denton Police Department is actively investigating a deadly shooting that unfolded in the heart of downtown on Saturday afternoon, leaving one man dead and a community in shock.
Authorities say the incident occurred at approximately 12:10 p.m. in the 200 block of W. Hickory Street, a location situated near the popular and bustling Downtown Square. Multiple 911 calls flooded the emergency dispatch center, reporting gunfire and a man injured.
Preliminary findings indicate that the shooting stemmed from a disturbance between a male patron and an individual experiencing homelessness. The nature of the disagreement remains under investigation, but police have confirmed that it began as a verbal altercation and escalated rapidly.
When officers arrived at the scene, they found the victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Emergency medical responders transported the man to a nearby hospital, where doctors and nurses attempted life-saving measures. Sadly, their efforts were unsuccessful, and the victim was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival. His identity has not yet been released pending next-of-kin notification.
In a notable turn, the patron involved in the incident did not flee. Instead, he remained on scene and was detained by responding officers for questioning. Police have not said whether any arrests have been made or if charges will be filed, stressing that the investigation is in its early stages.
The downtown area was temporarily cordoned off as crime scene investigators collected evidence, took photographs, and interviewed witnesses. Detectives are also reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses to piece together a clearer timeline of events.
The Denton Police Department has urged anyone who was in the area during the shooting or who may have relevant information to come forward. They are particularly interested in speaking with individuals who may have captured cellphone video or photographs of the confrontation.
Saturday’s tragedy has shaken the local community, raising concerns about safety in public gathering spaces and highlighting the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness. For now, police are asking the public to allow the investigative process to unfold and to refrain from spreading unverified information.
Officials say further details, including the identities of those involved and the circumstances leading up to the shooting, will be released as the case develops.
