Mesquite Police Release Body Cam Footage of Deadly Traffic Stop

The footage shows a struggle between an officer and a man who later died after the encounter.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Mesquite police have released body-worn camera footage that captures the moments before an officer struggled to arrest a man who tried to run from a traffic stop in Pleasant Grove, became unresponsive and died. The man, identified as 55-year-old Willie Rose of Dallas, can be heard telling officers he cannot breathe during the encounter. The officer got on top of Rose and struck him several times in an attempt to gain control before Rose became unresponsive. Rose's daughter said 'He killed him' after viewing the footage.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about police use of force and the treatment of individuals during traffic stops, especially those with potential medical issues. The release of the body cam footage is part of an ongoing investigation by the Dallas Police Department and Dallas County district attorney's office.

The details

The footage shows the officer chasing Rose after he ran from the traffic stop, then getting on top of him and struggling to put him in handcuffs. The officer struck Rose several times in an attempt to gain control. The officer then warned he would use a Taser before realizing Rose had become unresponsive. Two other people in the vehicle were also facing charges related to the incident.

  • The incident occurred on December 29, 2025 around 8:29 PM.
  • Mesquite police released the body cam footage on February 6, 2026.

The players

Willie Rose

A 55-year-old man from Dallas who died following the encounter with Mesquite police.

Mesquite Police Department

The law enforcement agency that released the body cam footage of the incident.

Dallas Police Department

The agency leading the investigation into Rose's death.

Dallas County District Attorney's Office

Also investigating the incident alongside the Dallas Police Department.

Chasity Rose

Willie Rose's daughter who said 'He killed him' after viewing the footage.

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What they’re saying

“It was hard to watch. He killed him.”

— Chasity Rose, Willie Rose's daughter (WFAA-TV (Channel 8)

What’s next

The Dallas Police Department and Dallas County district attorney's office will continue their investigation into Willie Rose's death. The Mesquite police officer involved has not been named and remains on active duty pending the outcome of the investigation.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing concerns around police use of force, especially during traffic stops, and the need for thorough and transparent investigations into such encounters that result in a loss of life. It also raises questions about how police handle individuals with potential medical issues during confrontations.