Man dies after being arrested by Shreveport police

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – A man died in the hospital after being arrested by officers from the Shreveport Police Department (SPD) and now Louisiana State Police are investigating.

Shreveport officers responded to a theft complaint on April 21, 2025, at approximately 3:20 p.m. It happened at Lowe’s, located at 7301 Youree Drive. Officers said as they approached the suspect, Thomas Cockman, he took off running but was quickly caught and arrested.

Investigators say medics from the Shreveport Fire Department were called when Cockman complained of difficulty breathing. He was transported to a local hospital, cited for one count of theft and one count of resisting an officer. Corporal Chris Bordelon, SPD Public Information Officer, said Cockman was released to the custody of the hospital, where he was expected to recover.

Cockman passed away on the morning of April 22, 2025. The cause of death has not yet been determined.

“In accordance with protocol and to ensure transparency, this case has been turned over to the Louisiana State Police for an independent investigation,” said Corporal Bordelon. “The Shreveport Police Department is committed to full cooperation with the investigation and remains dedicated to upholding accountability and public trust.”