BPD identifies man killed in police-involved shooting and suspect arrested

Beaumont-sur-Mer — Beaumont Police identify a man who was shot by officers after he allegedly attacked them with a chainsaw. Beaumont Police also confirm the arrest of a suspect in connection with the original disturbance call.

Officer Haley Morrow tells KFDM/Fox 4 News that Manuel Arteaga, 42, was killed by police officers and that the suspect in connection with the disturbance call, Raul Arteaga Jr., 24, was arrested on charges of aggravated assault related to domestic violence and aggravated assault.

Jail records show that Raul Arteaga's bail is set at $150,000. He remained in custody Sunday evening.

Officer Morrow says the investigation revealed that Raul Arteaga Jr. was the suspect in the original disturbance call at 8:20 p.m. Saturday in the 1800 block of Harriot near Avenue A. Officers arrived on scene and began to detain Raul Arteaga Jr. when Manuel Arteaga charged at the officers and Raul Arteaga Jr. with a chainsaw. Morrow says this action caused two officers to discharge their firearms. Manuel Arteaga died at the scene and none of the officers were injured.

Family members told KFDM/Fox 4 News that Manuel Arteaga ran a landscaping and tree care business and worked hard to support his four children.

“He was a hardworking man,” said Yuli Arteaga, Manuel Arteaga’s niece.

“He would never try to hurt a police officer. His daughter is currently studying criminal justice and will be a police officer,” she told KFDM/Fox 4 News on Sunday.

“He told me he was proud of her; he wanted her to be a police officer,” she said.

“We will not rest until we find justice and peace for him,” added Yuli Artega. “Everyone who knew him knows how respectful he is towards people,” she said.

The case remains under investigation by BPD detectives, the Internal Affairs Bureau, the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office and the Texas Rangers. In accordance with standard procedure, both officers involved in the incident have been placed on leave pending the outcome of the investigation.