Armed man killed in officer-involved shooting had Alzheimer’s, family says
JACKSON, Tenn. — In regards to the shooting that occurred Monday night involving a Madison County Sheriff’s Deputy, the TBI has released a press release giving us more information detailing what happened.
The release states that:
“Just before 10:30 p.m., on Monday, December 16th, deputies with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a disturbance in the 300 block of Fern Drive in Jackson involving a man who was armed and acting violently. Preliminary information indicates that upon arrival, deputies heard a gunshot, and then encountered Robert Harrison who was armed. Harrison refused to comply with verbal commands to drop the weapon. During the encounter, for reasons still under investigation, a deputy fired his weapon, striking Harrison. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. No deputies were injured during the incident. TBI agents are currently working to determine the series of events leading to the shooting including collecting evidence and conducting interviews. Throughout the process investigative findings will be shared with the district attorney general for his further review and consideration. The TBI acts solely as fact finders in its cases and does not determine whether and officers actions were justified in these matters.”
We also received a statement from Faye Harrison, the widow of Robert Harrison. She says her husband was an 80-year-old retired police officer and businessman who was well respected and loved in his community.
“Several years ago he was diagnosed with advanced staged Alzheimer’s and severe memory loss from Lyme Disease. Out of love and respect for Bob, he continued to live in his home surrounded by his family and loved ones. Those who have loved ones that suffer from Alzheimer’s are well aware of the disruptive behavior that occurs with Sundowner’s Syndrome. On the evening of December 16th, 2024, Bob was having a serious episode that resulted in a call to local law enforcement. Every attempt was made to peaceably resolve the matter, but unfortunately Bob’s actions resulted in him losing his life.”
The Madison County Sheriff’s Office also released a statement saying that Sergeant Sebatian Baker was the deputy involved in the shooting. In accordance to standard protocol to incidents of this nature, Sergeant Baker has been placed on routine administrative leave, with pay, during the TBI’s investigation.
For more Madison County news, click here.
