EPISODE 168

Sniper in the Tower:

1966 Austin Clock Tower Shooting

Sep 1, 2024 | Podcast

University of Texas Clock Tower

Back in the 1960s a former Marine took the high ground in one of the first and deadliest school shootings in American history. This watershed event was part of the discussion that brought the idea of a SWAT team to the national stage and arguably brought momentum to what some now consider to be the militarization of the police. We talk about counter-ambush tactics, cover or suppressive fire in law enforcement, tactical medicine, and more.

https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/university-of-texas-tower-shooting-1966 

https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2016/09/03/ut-tower-shooting-claims-one-more-life/10008498007/

 

Find us on social media (Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/YouTube) @TacTangents. You can join the conversation in our Facebook Discussion Group.
Find all of our episodes, articles, some reading list ideas, and more on our website www.tacticaltangents.com

Like what we’re doing? Head over to Patreon and give us a buck for each new episode. You can also make a one-time contribution at GoFundMe.

Intro music credit Bensound.com

CLICK BELOW TO SUBSCRIBE NOW ON YOUR FAVORITE PLAYER

Audible Logo for listening to podcast

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! PLEASE GO CHECK THEM OUT

Lowa Boots Logo
POM Pepper Spray Logo

Recent Episodes

The Last Traffic Stop: Kyle Dinkheller’s Story

The Last Traffic Stop: Kyle Dinkheller’s Story

This episode examines the tragic 1998 murder of Deputy Kyle Dinkheller, a young Georgia sheriff’s deputy killed during a routine traffic stop. Using dashcam footage, we recount the chilling escalation of the encounter, explore the decision making and mindset to reconcile deadly force, and delve into the lessons this event teaches about officer safety, de-escalation, and situational awareness.

De-Escalate? Escalate? When can you taser them?

De-Escalate? Escalate? When can you taser them?

Through this discussion, Mike and Jim examine the challenges of balancing split-second decisions with the need for critical thinking, training, and adherence to policy. They touch on how models like the Critical Decision-Making Model (CDM) and Integrated Communications, Assessment, and Tactics (ICAT) are shaping modern law enforcement training, while also addressing the limits of these frameworks.