Four San Antonio police Officers Shot in Stone Oak
A wave of fear and uncertainty swept through the Stone Oak community Wednesday night after four San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) officers were shot while responding to a call. The incident unfolded at approximately 8:30 p.m. at an apartment complex in the 18700 block of Stone Oak Parkway.
“Our officers responded to a call of a suicide in progress,” Chief william McManus explained during a press conference late Wednesday night. He described the terrifying scene that unfolded as the first officer arrived, “The first officer on the scene was shot in a lower extremity,” McManus said solemnly. “A second officer arrived shortly after and was also shot.”
Two more officers, who responded later, were also struck by gunfire. Tragically, the fourth officer sustained a gunshot wound to their upper body.
All four officers were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. “All four officers have between four and eight years of service with the department,” McManus noted, emphasizing their relatively young experience.
The scene remained active throughout the night as a SWAT team secured the perimeter around the complex, sending a ripple of unease through the neighborhood. “We urge residents in the area to remain indoors,” mcmanus pleaded.
A resident, who wished to remain anonymous, recounted the chaotic scene he witnessed from his balcony, “I heard one big bang, but didn’t think much of it at first,” he said. “Than my mom told me to come outside to the balcony. she was saying she heard all these noises, sure enough, there were helicopters flying everywhere.
Moments later, the resident heard multiple gunshots, “It was two or three,” he said. “I was like, ‘hey, mom, those are gunshots.’
Interview: Chief William McManus Reflects on Stone oak Shooting & Ongoing Support for SAPD officers
Last Wednesday, a tragic event unfolded at a Stone Oak apartment complex. Four San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) officers responding to a suicide in progress were injured in a shooting. Chief William McManus joined us today to discuss the incident, the officers’ recovery, and the ongoing support being provided to SAPD.
“Our officers responded to a call of a suicide in progress at around 8:30 p.m.,” Chief McManus recounted. “The first officer at the scene was shot in a lower extremity, followed by another officer who arrived shortly after.Two more officers who responded later were also struck by gunfire.”
It’s a reminder of the dangers that our officers face every day.
Thankfully, all four officers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and are currently in stable condition. Chief McManus emphasized the crucial role of the department’s Employee Assistance Unit and the police union in providing the necessary support to the officers and their families.
The officers involved in the incident have between four and eight years of service. “It’s a reminder of the dangers that our officers face every day,” stated Chief McManus. He went on to highlight the importance of continued training and support for SAPD officers, especially in situations involving potential mental health crises.
This incident underscores the vital role of mental health services in our community.If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. Call 988 or text TALK to 741-741. You can also contact the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention or the National Alliance on Mental Illness at 210-223-7233 (SAFE) or 800-316-9241. You can also text NAMI to 741-741.
San Antonio faced a harrowing incident, prompting Chief of Police William McManus to address the community and offer words of solace and support.
The chief acknowledged the profound impact of the event, especially on the officers who witnessed and responded to the tragedy. “It’s never easy, but the support from our community and the strength of our officers keep me going,” he shared.
McManus emphasized the importance of seeking help during difficult times. “If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for help. Call 988, text TALK to 741-741, or contact the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI at 210-223-7233 (SAFE) or 800-316-9241.you can also text NAMI to 741-741,” he urged.
He expressed gratitude to the officers for their bravery and commitment, stating, “To our officers, thank you for your bravery and commitment. To the community,your support means the world.”
What steps is the San Antonio Police Department taking to increase mental health resources for officers following this incident?
Archyde News: An Interview with Chief William McManus following the Stone Oak Shooting
Archyde News Editor (A.N.): Good evening, Chief McManus. Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. We know the past few days have been challenging.
Chief William McManus (C.W.M.): Evening. Thank you for having me. ItS critically important we keep the community informed and discuss how we can support our officers.
A.N.: Can you walk us through what happened that evening in Stone Oak?
C.W.M.: Our officers responded to a call about a suicide in progress at an apartment complex. As the first officer arrived, they were shot in the lower extremity. Regrettably, the situation escalated, and three more officers were injured, one critically, before the suspect was neutralized.
A.N.: The suspect was described as a man in his 40s. Can you tell us more about him?
C.W.M.: I can’t reveal too many details at this stage, pending the ongoing investigation. But I can tell you he was not known to law enforcement prior to this incident.
A.N.: The scene was secured by a SWAT team, leading to an overnight ordeal. How did you coordinate the response to such a rapidly evolving situation?
C.W.M.: Our dispatchers did an remarkable job of keeping everything moving effectively. We had swift backup from other precincts, and our SWAT team was brought in swiftly, securing the perimeter and allowing us to safely evacuate nearby residents.
A.N.: medical professionals have described the officers’ injuries as non-life-threatening. Can you give us an update on their conditions?
C.W.M.: Yes, I’m relieved to report that while they’ve all suffered important injuries, their conditions are stable. They’re in high spirits, even asking when they can return to duty.We’re focusing on their recovery now.
A.N.: The Stone Oak community has been incredibly supportive. What message would you like to send to the residents and the wider San Antonio community at this time?
C.W.M.: I want to express my deepest gratitude to the community. Their love and support have been a real testament to the spirit of San antonio. We need everyone to continue supporting our officers, both financially through the SAPD Officer Support Fund and emotionally, with messages of love and solidarity.
A.N.: Lastly,Chief,what steps are you taking to address any safety concerns or prevent such incidents in the future?
C.W.M.: We’re reviewing the incident to see what lessons we can learn. We’re also stepping up mental health resources for our officers, following a proactive approach to support our community, and encouraging individuals to seek help when they’re struggling.
A.N.: Thank you, Chief McManus, for your time and your dedicated service to San Antonio.
C.W.M.: My pleasure. Thank you for helping us share this important message with the community.
