Littlefield, TX – Authorities have released new details surrounding the shooting that occurred Tuesday evening on East Waylon Jennings Boulevard, stating that the incident was likely a case of self-defense.
According to the Littlefield Police Department (LPD), officers responded to reports of a shooting on the 700 block of East Waylon Jennings Blvd on the evening of May 7. Upon arrival, they discovered a 35-year-old male suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene, and the injured man was transported to a hospital in Lubbock for treatment. Officials have since confirmed that his injuries were serious but not life-threatening.
In the hours following the incident, LPD launched an investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the shooting. This included collecting witness testimonies, canvassing the neighborhood, and reviewing available surveillance footage from nearby businesses and residences.
“After thoroughly reviewing the evidence, including statements from multiple eyewitnesses and security camera footage from the area, we have reason to believe the shooting was committed in self-defense,” said Chief of Police Ross Hinson in a statement issued Wednesday morning.
Authorities have not yet released the name of the individual who fired the weapon but confirmed that person remained at the scene, cooperated with investigators, and has not been placed under arrest. The individual claimed that they were confronted by the 35-year-old man in a threatening manner, prompting them to act in self-defense. Witnesses reportedly corroborated this account, describing the events leading up to the shooting as a confrontation that escalated rapidly.
Police say no additional suspects are being sought at this time and that no charges have been filed. However, the case remains open pending final review by the Lamb County District Attorney’s Office, which will determine if any further legal action is necessary.
“We take every shooting seriously,” Chief Hinson added. “Our job is to find the truth and ensure the safety of our community. In this case, the preliminary evidence supports that the person acted within their legal right to defend themselves.”
The incident has sparked conversations in the community about personal safety and gun laws in Texas, where self-defense statutes such as the “Stand Your Ground” law provide individuals the legal right to use force in certain situations where they feel threatened.
Residents and business owners in the area expressed a mix of concern and relief, with some noting that while the event was unsettling, they were grateful for the quick response by local law enforcement and for the transparency shown during the investigation.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone who may have additional information or footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward.
More updates will be provided as they become available.
