TTU Officers Involved in June Shooting Return to Duty After Investigation

Four Texas Tech University police officers placed on administrative leave after a fatal shooting in late June have been cleared to return to work, the university announced Wednesday. Officers Levi Ridley, James Black III, Tanner Eade, and Dante Prater were involved in the June 24 incident that left 63-year-old Rhino Simboli dead after he opened fire on officers responding to a suspicious vehicle near Jones AT&T Stadium.

According to the press release, the Lubbock Metropolitan Special Crimes Unit determined the officers’ use of force was justified. Their findings were reviewed and accepted by the Lubbock County District Attorney’s Office. Under departmental protocol, the officers had been placed on paid administrative leave during the investigation.

While the investigation is complete and all four officers are cleared for duty, some remain on leave to recover from injuries sustained during the confrontation. Officer Black was struck by both gunfire and Simboli’s vehicle and remains hospitalized as of Wednesday. Officer Ridley, also injured by gunfire, has been released from the hospital but is continuing his recovery.

The early-morning incident unfolded around 12:45 a.m. when officers approached Simboli’s suspiciously parked vehicle. Simboli opened fire on the officers, who returned fire, fatally wounding him.

Texas Tech University Police Department expressed gratitude for the support shown to the injured officers, Officer James Black III and Officer Levi Ridley. Fundraising pages have been established to assist with their recovery.

The department emphasized its commitment to officer safety and transparency following critical incidents.

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