Longview, Texas – Trial for Deputy’s Fatal Traffic Stop Shooting Begins
In a heartbreaking testimony on Wednesday, former Panola County Sheriff Kevin Lake recalled the devastating moment nearly five years ago when he had to inform the family of Deputy Chris Dickerson about his untimely death. The emotional atmosphere in the courtroom was palpable as Lake shared his memories of that fateful day, December 31, 2019—a day he described as one he would “never forget.”
The trial getting underway for Gregory Newson from Shreveport, Louisiana, is gripping the community’s attention, as he faces charges of capital murder for allegedly shooting Dickerson during a routine traffic stop. Newson has pleaded not guilty. The case is unfortunately reviving memories of a tragic event that affected many in the Panola County area.
The Day Everything Changed
Lake recounted the awful experience of notifying Dickerson’s wife and mother about their loved one’s fatal shooting. Choking back tears, he stated, “That was 1,758 days ago, you don’t forget something like that.” His account of that moment painted a vivid picture of grief and loss.
As the case opens, the prosecution painted a picture of Dickerson, who, at just 28 years old, had finally landed his dream job as a deputy with the Panola County Sheriff’s Office. Every evening, he reassured his wife of his safe return, promising, “Always.” But on that tragic day, his promise was shattered. State representatives argued that Dickerson was “executed” during a seemingly routine patrol stop in Gary, Texas. He had no idea that the driver, later identified as Newson, was hiding drugs and cash.
The Cruel Reality Unfolds
The state’s attorney emphasized the calculated nature of the shooting, highlighting that Dickerson had no chance to defend himself. The defense, however, seemed to lean on a simple but crucial point: the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. Lake spoke about the chaotic moments that followed the dispatcher’s call for “officer in distress.” He rushed to the scene only to find his deputy had succumbed to his injuries.
Family and friends of Dickerson testified about how deeply this loss reverberated throughout their lives and the community. The dispatch logs from that day painted a detailed timeline of the events, as officers quickly mobilized to find the vehicle registered in Louisiana that had fled the scene.
A Community in Mourning
Witnesses too shared their experiences. Danny Yelverton, a nearby resident, testified how he was roused by his son during the commotion only to discover Dickerson face down on the highway. After realizing the severity of the situation, Yelverton courageously used Dickerson’s radio to call for help, unfortunately confirming that this was more than just a simple tussle, seeing the multiple gunshot wounds on the fallen deputy.
As more details emerged throughout the court proceedings, it became evident how critical the community was in helping to capture Newson. Various law enforcement agencies worked together; sometimes under harrowing circumstances, like when Officer Robert Delconte noted shots fired against his vehicle while chasing the suspect. Meanwhile, body camera footage showed the tragic moments leading up to the shooting, leaving many in the courtroom visibly affected.
Continuing the Fight for Justice
As the week of testimony carries on, the courtroom expects to hear more accounts from those who were involved in the chase and subsequent apprehension of Newson. The trial was shifted to Gregg County due to concerns that an unbiased trial could not be conducted in Panola County, emphasizing just how critical this case is to the community.
The upcoming days in court hold promises of further raw testimonies and vivid recollections that highlight not just the tragedy of what occurred that night, but also the determination of the community to seek justice for a beloved deputy who tragically lost his life too soon.
