The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division (CID) has been called in to investigate an officer-involved shooting that occurred late Saturday night in Polk County.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the incident took place at approximately 10:30 p.m. on July 19, 2025, at a residence on County Road 14 in Wickes. A Grannis Police Department officer had responded to a request for assistance during an eviction at the home.
As the officer approached the property in his patrol vehicle, 65-year-old Darrin Laudermilk allegedly emerged onto the driveway armed with a pistol and opened fire. The officer returned fire, striking Laudermilk.
Laudermilk was pronounced dead at the scene by the Polk County Coroner. His body will be transported to the Arkansas State Crime Lab, where the official cause and manner of death will be determined.
Special agents with the ASP CID are now leading the investigation. Once complete, their findings will be turned over to the Polk County Prosecutor, who will determine whether the officer’s use of deadly force complied with Arkansas law.
