Names Released In Muskogee Police Shooting

By Chris Wright, News On 6

MUSKOGEE, OK -- Muskogee police shot and killed a man after they say he pulled a knife on two officers. Brian Tackett, 42, was shot twice Tuesday morning. He later died.

Brian Tackett had more than 10 outstanding felony warrants. He was wanted for attempt to manufacture a controlled dangerous substance, possession of firearm while committing a felony and probation violation.

On Tuesday morning, Muskogee officers Jody Standridge and John Frazier received a tip that Tackett was staying at Buckaroos Auto Body.

When they confronted Tackett, police say he grabbed a 10 inch knife.

Muskogee police showed up at the auto body shop to serve Tackett with those multiple warrants, but say they had no choice but to open fire once he pulled out his knife.

"He was given verbal commands and told to comply, and refused to comply. So he chose a different route," said Officer Brad Holt, Muskogee Police Department.

The officers shot Tackett twice. He was taken to a Muskogee hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Those who live and work nearby say everything happened extremely quickly.

"We were standing here and my husband called and asked if we heard the gun shots. We looked out the door and police swarmed over there, like 14 cop cars," said Glenda Hilton, convenience store owner.

"This is an awful quiet neighborhood out here. It was a shock," said James Thomas, neighbor.

Both Standridge and Frazier have been placed on administrative leave until the investigation into the shooting is completed.

While Muskogee PD says Standridge and Frazier "followed department policy," it says any officer-involved shooting is regrettable.

"These things are always unfortunate. Unfortunately they are going to happen sometimes," said Officer Holt.

Tackett had run-ins with the law in the past. He had served time for meth-related charges.