Dimitri Calvert Obituary – The Springdale Police Department (SPD) has made available to the public the case files, dashcam footage, and bodycam footage pertaining to the incident where an officer shot and killed a man who was reportedly experiencing a mental health crisis, as stated by his family.
On April 26, SPD announced that the Washington County prosecuting attorney had determined Corporal Danny Wright’s actions to be justified in the fatal shooting of Dimitri Calvert, which occurred on March 12, 2024. Consequently, all information related to the investigation has been released for public access.
Calvert’s family expressed concerns regarding the shooting, asserting that Dimitri was in need of mental health support. According to SPD, on March 12, they received multiple calls reporting a man damaging cars and making threats towards individuals on Norfolk Avenue.
Initially, SPD stated that the individual who was fatally shot, identified as 30-year-old Dimitri Calvert, was found in possession of a knife and had refused to drop it, leading to Corporal Wright’s decision to use lethal force. However, in an updated statement issued three days after the incident, SPD revealed that Calvert had been holding a knife to a bystander’s neck, which prompted the officer to open fire.
“On March 15, SPD stated, “Based on the initial investigation, as well as the examination of video evidence and witness statements, it has been determined that moments before the shooting, Dimitri Calvert took an uninvolved male hostage and held a knife to his throat. It was at this point that Corporal Wright discharged his firearm, striking Calvert.”
Corporal Wright has been a member of the department for 25 years, as stated in a press release. Throughout the investigation, he was placed on paid leave. SPD has confirmed that Wright has since resumed his full duties.