Shooting Involving Amarillo Police Officer Under Investigation

The investigation of a Friday night officer involved shooting has been turned over to the Special Crimes Department.

On Friday, May 6th Amarillo police responded to a report of a man being shot at 1524 Bell Street.  The wounded victim was taken to the hospital by ambulance.

The suspect was identified as 23-year-old Eric J. Veloz and officers were given information that led them to believe Veloz was planning on returning to the scene of the crime.  The SWAT team was called in and got in position.  Further information given to police led them to the 2100 block of North Coulter where the suspect was believed to be hiding.

An officer canvassing the area on foot for the suspect discovered him behind a church at 2101 North Coulter.  The suspect was armed with a handgun.  When the suspect raised and pointed the gun at the office who drew his weapon and shot the suspect.  The injury was not serious and the man was arrested.  Before he was taken to Potter County Jail he was taken to the hospital and treated for his wound.

Veloz was charged with Felony Aggravated Assault with a Weapon and Felony Aggravated Assault against a Public Servant.

Pursuant to Amarillo police department policy regarding officer involved shooting, the officer was placed on three days administrative leave while the shooting is investigated by Special Crimes.