By Trish Svoboda

An investigation is being conducted by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) after a fatal deputy-involved shooting in Wichita. Around 3:20 a.m. on Thursday, January 25th, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) requested the KBI conduct an investigation. KBI agents along with the Crime Scene Response Team (CSRT) responded.

Wednesday night around 11:30 p.m., officers from the Wichita Police Department (WPD) initiated a vehicle pursuit after they encountered a suspect driving a vehicle reported stolen at knifepoint earlier that night. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Larry K. Armour, 43, of Wichita. After the pursuit concluded, Armour fled on foot.

Preliminary reports suggest that Armour entered a residence through the back entrance, armed with a knife. Inside was a male resident who was unfamiliar with Armour.

A tactical team, comprising officers from the WPD, deputies from the SCSO, and crisis negotiators, responded to the residence. The tactical team arrived at the scene just before 1 a.m. By just after 3 a.m., a deputy from SCSO observed Armour through a window, holding a large knife and threatening the resident. In response, the deputy discharged one shot, striking Armour and ending the hostage situation.

Armour received medical assistance, and EMS transported him to a hospital in Wichita. Despite efforts to save his life, he succumbed to his injuries. The male resident was taken to a local hospital for evaluation, but he sustained no injuries. None of the law enforcement officers involved in the shooting sustained injuries.

The KBI will undertake a thorough and independent investigation into this incident. The findings will be submitted to the Sedgwick County District Attorney for examination. This is an ongoing investigation.