Man killed by Carrollton PD

Carrollton resident, William Michael Burns, 71, was killed by Carrollton Police when he pointed a handgun at officers when they approached his residence to follow up on a trespass investigation on  Jan. 22.

On Thursday, Jan. 22, shortly before 8 p.m., the Carrollton Police Department (CPD) was dispatched to LA Fitness, located at 3050 N. Josey Lane, Carrollton, Texas, regarding a report of a male taking inappropriate and unsolicited photographs of a female inside the gym.

The male was later identified as Carrollton resident, William Michael Burns, age 71. Following an interaction between gym staff and Burns, he was asked to leave the business. LA Fitness requested that Burns be issued a criminal trespass warning. CPD officers responded to Burns’ residence to conduct a follow-up investigation.

Upon arrival at the residence, Carrollton Police officers approached the front door and verbally announced themselves. Initially, Burns did not respond to repeated announcements and knocks. Officers were able to observe Burns moving inside the residence.

Moments later, Burns exited the residence armed with a handgun. Officers issued multiple commands for Burns to drop the weapon. However, Burns instead pointed the handgun at officers, at which point officers discharged their weapons.

Officers immediately rendered life-saving measures; however, Burns was pronounced deceased at the scene by Carrollton Texas Fire Rescue.

The Dallas County District Attorney’s Office Public Integrity Unit responded to the scene and is conducting a joint investigation with CPD. All involved officers have been placed on administrative leave in accordance with departmental policy. No officers were injured during the incident.