A 22-year-old man was shot and killed early Wednesday morning at Olsen Park in Amarillo, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Amarillo Police Department’s Homicide Unit.
Police say they received a call at approximately 12:08 a.m. reporting a shooting at the park, located in the city’s southwest area. When officers, Amarillo Medical Response (AMR), and Amarillo Fire Department personnel arrived on scene, they found a man suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
The deceased has been identified as Braydon Mitchell Ellertson, 22. His family has been notified.
According to initial reports from the Amarillo Police Department, the individual who called 911 remained on scene and told authorities he had shot Ellertson during a physical altercation. The caller claimed that Ellertson approached him at the park, which escalated into a fight. During the confrontation, the caller allegedly fired a single shot, striking Ellertson.
As of Wednesday afternoon, no arrests had been made, and police have not released the identity of the shooter. Investigators are still determining whether the shooting was in self-defense or if any criminal charges will be filed.
The Amarillo Police Department emphasized that the investigation is active, and the Homicide Unit is working to gather all relevant facts, including reviewing any possible surveillance footage, collecting forensic evidence, and interviewing witnesses.
Authorities have not indicated whether the two men knew each other prior to the incident or what may have led to the confrontation.
Police are asking anyone who may have been in the area around the time of the shooting or who has information about the incident to contact the Amarillo Police Homicide Unit or report anonymously through Amarillo Crime Stoppers.
Olsen Park remained open on Wednesday, though officers were seen canvassing the area earlier in the day as part of their investigation.
