HPD conducting internal review of use-of-force incident

Published on January 23, 2026

The Huntsville Police Department (HPD) is reviewing a use-of-force incident involving one of its officers.

On Wednesday, Jan. 21 around 11:30 p.m., an HPD officer observed a vehicle failing to stop while leaving a local business on Jordan Lane near Oakwood Avenue.

When the officer attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver, Lundon Dewayne Harkey, 37, of Huntsville, attempted to flee. A short traffic pursuit ensued, during which Harkey lost control of the vehicle and crashed.

After the crash, Harkey attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended by the officer. During the apprehension, force was used while the officer worked to take Harkey into custody. The department is reviewing all available evidence, including body-worn camera footage and other investigative materials, to evaluate the incident.

During the arrest, Harkey attempted to destroy what appeared to be illegal narcotics by swallowing the substance. He was transported to a local hospital for evaluation before being booked into the Madison County Jail on the following charges:

• Felony attempting to elude a police officer
• Resisting arrest
• Tampering with physical evidence

The officer involved has been placed on administrative duty pending the outcome of the review.