Police release name of man shot, killed by Snyder police

SNYDER, Texas — Snyder police have released the name of the suspect who was shot and killed by one of their officers.

Morgan Shane West, 38, of Snyder was shot and killed Thursday evening.

The medical examiner in Lubbock ruled the preliminary cause of death was a gunshot wound.

Officer Whitney Merket, 32, responded to the 3600 block of Jacksboro Ave. about 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

Chief Brian Haggard said Merket "made contact with the suspect and an altercation began."

Merket fired her weapon, killing West.

Merket remains on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation by the Texas Rangers.

"This is a very difficult time for the City of Snyder and the Snyder Police Department," said Haggard. "Our condolences go out to the family of Mr. West during this difficult time."