The Sharp County Sheriff’s Department has requested the Arkansas State Police to investigate an officer involved shooting that occurred earlier today.

     Jesse Hope, 19, of Ash Flat, was wounded by a Hardy Police Officer after the vehicle Hope was driving collided with police cars from Hardy and Highland.  The crash and shooting incident occurred about 3:50 AM at the intersection of Hospital Drive and Allegheny Drive in Cherokee Village.

    Hope had been pursued into Cherokee Village after the vehicle Hope was driving struck a nearby convenience store.

    Hope was transported to an area hospital.  His medical condition is unknown.

   Special Agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division are investigating the use of deadly force by a law enforcement officer and will submit their findings to the Sharp Count prosecuting attorney who will determine if the use of force was consistent with Arkansas laws.

    Consistent with Arkansas State Police protocol, questions relating to the identity of any officers involved in the incidents (pursuit and/or officer involved shooting), or the administrative status of any officers, should be directed to the law enforcement agency employing the officers.