Dallas police have released body camera footage showing officers coming under fire while responding to a family violence call Monday night in Oak Cliff. The incident occurred at an apartment on the 4300 block of Woodhollow Drive after a father called 911, reporting that his 18-year-old son was threatening to kill him.
“My son is trying to shoot me,” the father told the dispatcher. When asked if the teen had a gun, he replied, “What do you think?” This prompted an urgent response from two arriving officers.
Upon entering the apartment, the officers discovered the teen barricaded in a bathroom with his grandmother. As one officer attempted to gain access by kicking in the door, the suspect opened fire. The bodycam video shows bullets striking the officer’s protective vest, while both officers returned fire in self-defense.
The standoff lasted several seconds, with the teen repeatedly pointing a handgun through the bathroom doorway. Police later confirmed the weapon was a .40-caliber handgun equipped with a switch and an extended magazine—modifications that could lead to federal charges in addition to local offenses, including shooting at officers.
The teen was critically injured and remains hospitalized. His grandmother was also shot but is recovering. One officer sustained a chest wound; fortunately, his bulletproof vest prevented serious injury.
Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux praised the officers’ actions, emphasizing that their quick response likely saved lives. “You had the grandmother screaming, ‘He has a gun,’ and the father reporting the threat. The 911 call indicated an immediate armed threat. I am satisfied that the officers entered the bathroom to assess and neutralize the situation,” Comeaux said.
The officers involved have been placed on routine administrative leave while the investigation continues. Authorities emphasized that the case remains active, and more details may be released as the investigation progresses.
Experts note that incidents like these highlight the dangers law enforcement officers face when responding to domestic disputes. Officers rely on training, protective equipment, and rapid decision-making to handle volatile situations where both family members and the public may be at risk. This case demonstrates the importance of body armor, tactical coordination, and real-time assessment in protecting lives during high-risk responses.
The incident also raises awareness of the risks posed by modified firearms. Law enforcement officials warn that weapons with extended magazines or switches significantly increase the lethality of domestic disputes and can result in federal criminal charges.
As the investigation continues, the Dallas Police Department encourages residents to report threats promptly and cooperate with officers to prevent escalation. The department reiterated its commitment to both public safety and the safety of its officers during emergency responses.
