Investigation underway into the death of Clarksville man in custody

The Clarksville Police Department says they are cooperating with investigators and have extended their condolences to the family of Darius Chappell. 

Chappell was taken into custody by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office on June 29 following a struggle, where a Clarksville Police Department K9 officer assisted with the arrest. During that event, Chappell was reportedly tased multiple times and a police dog was utilized. He was arrested and lodged in the Montgomery County Jail, where he would be found deceased a few days later. 

Now, investigation is underway into the circumstances of his passing, along with investigation into the use of force during his arrest. The Clarksville officer has been placed on administrative leave.

At the request of 19th Judicial District Attorney General Robert Nash, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is investigating Chappell’s death and the NAACP is requesting that the Federal Bureau of Investigation join in.

In a statement, Clarksville Police Chief Ty Burdine says, “We are committed to conducting a complete and thorough review of our officer’s actions. Out of respect for the integrity of the ongoing investigations, we are limited in what we can discuss at this time. We will fully cooperate with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation as it conducts its independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Chappell’s death.”

A GoFundMe has been launched to support Chappell’s family and three sons as they look to raise funds to help lay him to rest.