Medical examiner rules K-9 arrest death homicide

An autopsy has ruled Darius Chappell’s death a homicide, listing the cause as rhabdomyolysis following pursuit and subdual by law enforcement. Chappell, 34, died in the Montgomery County Jail on July 3, five days after his arrest in Clarksville, where video showed officers tasing him and a police K-9 biting him as they restrained him. The medical examiner cited evidence of muscle breakdown and kidney injury; authorities had said Chappell was medically evaluated before being booked. Clarksville Officer Steven Deering, the K-9’s handler, was fired after an internal investigation. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and district attorney’s office are reviewing the events, and prosecutors are awaiting further consultation with the medical examiner before deciding whether to bring charges.