A tense standoff between the Tyler Police Department and a barricaded suspect came to a resolution on September 5, 2023. The incident unfolded in a west Tyler residence located in the 3100 block of West Jackson Street.
The ordeal began when the Fugitive Task Force, in the course of serving a warrant on behalf of the United States Marshal Service, encountered a barricaded suspect. The situation prompted the deployment of the SWAT team and negotiators to the scene as a precautionary measure.
As the standoff continued, communication with the suspect, identified as 57-year-old Mark Johnson of Tyler, TX, broke down. In response, authorities introduced gas into the residence, deploying gas canisters. Following the introduction of gas, the suspect was taken into custody without further incident. Mr. Johnson was evaluated by EMS before being booked into the Smith County jail.
In a later update provided by the Tyler Police Department, it was revealed that a Tyler police officer had initially spotted the suspect, recognizing him as an individual being pursued by the U.S. Marshals. The officer called in for backup and witnessed the suspect retreating into the residence.
Reports indicate that one other individual was observed at the residence. This incident stemmed from Mr. Johnson's escape from custody.
