Officer fires once at 16-year-old after teen fails to drop gun in Stockbridge
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation says Tyrie Howse was killed during a foot pursuit in Henry County.
By Pedro Barnes ·
Tyrie Howse, a 16-year-old from Stockbridge, died after a police officer fired one shot during an encounter in Henry County. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation, or GBI, released a timeline of events that led to the fatal shooting.
Investigators state that an officer approached Howse and a 17-year-old friend. The officer instructed the older teen to remove his hands from his pockets. The 17-year-old pulled out a gun and handed the weapon to Howse, according to the GBI report.
Howse ran from the officer. Investigators say the officer ordered Howse to drop the gun. The GBI reports that Howse did not drop the weapon, prompting the officer to fire. The single shot killed the teen.
A vigil held in Henry County drew dozens of classmates and friends to honor Howse. Quinn Barnes, a close friend of Howse’s mother, expressed frustration over the lack of clarity regarding the officer's actions. Barnes questioned whether Howse posed a threat that justified the use of lethal force.
Barnes stated that the family believes the teen likely ran because he was scared. She noted that the community expects police to protect residents, yet her family feels the opposite dynamic played out during the encounter.
Friends described Howse as a dedicated student with specific career goals. Elaun Clark, a friend of Howse, said the teen loved football and intended to work in the medical field. Clark stated she does not want Howse to be remembered solely as a victim of a police shooting.
Jaden Swain recalled how Howse regularly checked on him to ensure he was okay. Friends emphasized that Howse was a caring individual who consistently supported those around him. The family has asked for accountability as the investigation proceeds.
