LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) - A 17-year-old is dead after an officer-involved shooting last night in North Little Rock.
North Little Rock police report it all happened after a traffic stop early this morning. They found Charles Smith with a gun after stopping his car which held two other passengers.
“He's a child and I know they have children the same age as him,” said Keyarrier Randall who went to school with Smith.
This officer involved shooting is shaking the North Little Rock community to its core.
“He called and told me - I was playing 2K - I really didn't believe it though,” said Devante Chris, a childhood friend of Smith.
At approximately 1:04 a.m., North Little Rock police pulled over a vehicle with three passengers inside.
While conducting a search, police report they saw the teen, Charles Smith, with a gun. That led to a struggle.
“The story doesn't even add up, but we're going to get justice,” said Chris.
From there, police claim Smith fired his gun at least once and that caused officers to shoot back. Smith was pronounced dead at the scene.
"All of this wasn't called for. Everybody out here knows he was a good person. The most uplifting thing about him was his smile,” said Randall.
Family and friends who knew him gathered in front of Levy Church of Christ to remember the short life he lived and mourn the future he will never have.
"Long live CJ. You have plenty of love out here; we care about you. And prayers to your family,” added Randall.
A statement issued by police reports the officers did attempt life saving measures at the scene.
The department has not responded to requests for more information other than the statement issued this morning.
All officers involved have been placed on paid administrative leave.