Craig Carlson

Deadly force

At around 9 p.m., deputies responded to calls from Craig Carlson's siblings, who were concerned that their brother was suicidal. A 12-hour standoff ensued, drawing approximately 60 officers from up to 10 agencies and SWAT team led by TCPD Sgt. Steve Drzewiecki. Carlson's family stood near the negotiator, who they said mostly argued with Carlson by phone. At about 1 a.m., GTCSD sheriff Scott Fewins said he might let Carlson's brother try to talk him down, but before he got a chance, deputies claimed Carlson shot himself. Carlson's family was taken away. His brother said Carlson grew increasingly panicked as they continued speaking by phone. At 3:30, Carlson's siblings were told to stop calling him. At around 5:30 police fired tear gas into the house. At about 7 police cut the power. At 7:30, police fired more tear gas, breaking many windows. At about 9:15 a.m., Carlson allegedly aimed a gun at ACSD deputy Travis Chellis, who was hiding behind a tree. GTCSD sniper Charles Jetter shot Carlson once in the head. Carlson's family attorney alleged a cover up, saying that Carlson's clothes went missing after an autopsy, that police radio communications were only recorded during the first part of the evening, and that there were other gaps in evidence. He also said police had time to bring in food and beverages for the officers, yet failed to get a warrant before firing tear gas into the house. Fewins indicated he didn't think a warrant was necessary.