HARLETON, Texas — A man was arrested Sunday after authorities said he displayed a firearm in a threatening manner during a dispute outside a church in Harleton.
According to the Harrison County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to the Oak Grove Baptist Church located at 225 Heskell Oney Road on May 10, 2026, following reports that a person had reached for a firearm during an argument in the church parking lot.
During the investigation, deputies learned that 35-year-old Ryan Taylor Nichols of Diana, TX, allegedly confronted another individual in the parking lot. Authorities said the victim attempted to leave and de-escalate the situation, but Nichols continued confronting him.
The victim told deputies he turned away from Nichols and attempted to guide his family toward their vehicle while asking Nichols to return to his own vehicle and leave the area.
According to the sheriff’s office, Nichols allegedly continued approaching the victim. The victim stated that after turning back toward Nichols, he observed Nichols raise his shirt to display a firearm and place his hand on the grip of the weapon.
The victim told investigators he feared for his life because of Nichols’ actions.
Nichols was arrested on a charge of deadly conduct for displaying a firearm in a threatening manner that caused the victim to fear imminent serious bodily injury. He also had an open warrant from Panola County for Harassment.
