VIDEO: Unarmed Man Killed by Texas Deputy; Colleague Told “I Just Smoked a Dude”

A tragic event occurred on September 14, 2022, in Henderson, Texas. According to NBC News, a young man named Timothy Michael Randall was driving his Nissan Altima when he suddenly noticed flashing lights behind him—he was being pulled over. While this was happening, Timothy was on the phone with his mother. She later stated that he had called to let her know he’d be home in just a few minutes, so there was no need to worry. But worry is exactly what Wendy Tippett Randall, Timothy's mother, has been living with ever since that day.

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Justice for the Unarmed Man Killed by a Texas Deputy?

After Randall ended the call, Sergeant Shane Iversen of the Rusk County Sheriff's Office approached the Altima and explained that Timothy had run a stop sign—a violation caught on the police dash camera. Randall immediately denied the accusation, and Iversen ordered him out of the car. This struck some as unusual, as it should have been a routine traffic stop. Instead, the situation quickly escalated.

Chilling Words from Texas Deputy After Killing

When Timothy stepped out of the car, he placed his wallet in his back pocket and adjusted his waistband. At that point, Sergeant Iversen reached into the front of Randall’s pants and instructed him to put his hands behind his back—an action captured on police footage. Randall raised his hands and said, “I didn’t do anything,” pleading to understand why he was being arrested. The officer did not respond and instead wrestled Randall to the ground. This use of force is troubling, especially given the training and protocols law enforcement officers are expected to follow in such encounters. After being thrown to the ground, Randall landed on his back and began to turn, attempting to flee. At that moment, Sergeant Iversen drew his weapon and pointed it at Randall. He shouted, “Get down!” and fired, striking the young man in the chest.

What the "Smoked a Dude" Comment Reveals About the Texas Deputy Shooting

Another officer arrived shortly after. Meanwhile, Iversen returned to his patrol car and called a colleague, stating, “I just smoked the dude.” Given his years of training and service, one would expect a sergeant to show more professionalism, especially in the aftermath of a fatal shooting. Timothy’s mother, Wendy Tippett, has spoken out, saying the authorities have told the family very little. The family continues to seek justice, firmly believing no threat warranted the use of deadly force. The emotional toll on the family has been immense, leading to a level of trauma that many outside their experience may not fully grasp.

Perhaps the most heartbreaking detail reported by NBC News is that, moments before being shot, Timothy Randall looked at the officer and uttered a plea: “Officer, please.”