TEMPLE, TX (February 9, 2026) – The Temple Police Department is investigating an assault involving two police officers and two emergency medical technicians (EMT) that occurred Saturday afternoon while responding to an overdose call.
At around 4:16 p.m., on Saturday, February 7th, officers were dispatched to the 600 block of South 19th Street in reference to an overdose. Dispatch advised that 33-year-old Wayne Bledsoe III was conscious and alert but had reportedly ingested PCP. Upon arrival, officers made contact with Mr. Bledsoe and the caller, identified as 46-year-old Schemika Burleson. Officers were advised that Mr. Bledsoe had ingested PCP and required medical attention.
At approximately 4:23 p.m., EMS arrived on scene, evaluated Mr. Bledsoe, and determined he needed to be transported to the hospital for treatment. Officers and Mrs. Burleson explained the need for transport to Mr. Bledsoe. While inside the ambulance, Mr. Bledsoe abruptly stood up and attempted to evade EMS personnel and officers by exiting the vehicle. Officers attempted to regain control, at which point Mr. Bledsoe began actively resisting by grabbing at officers.
During the struggle, Mrs. Burleson physically interfered by grabbing the officers and “fish hooking” one of them by placing her fingers in the officer's mouth and pulling the officer. Mr. Bledsoe also grabbed the first officer, pulling apart the officer’s radio and preventing the officer from calling for additional assistance. Mr. Bledsoe further assaulted the second officer by pulling the officer’s hair, causing pain, and breaking the officer’s finger. Multiple bystanders continued to approach and verbally interfere with officers’ efforts to control the situation despite officers' and EMTs’ verbal attempts to ask the bystanders to stay at a safe distance. Officers were ultimately able to detain both Mr. Bledsoe and Mrs. Burleson.
Mr. Bledsoe was transported to the hospital for evaluation and later booked into the Bell County Jail for assault on a public servant. Mrs. Burleson was also transported to Bell County Jail for assault on a public servant. Additional charges are pending further investigation.
Two Temple Police Officers were evaluated at the hospital for their injuries. Two EMTs sustained minor injuries during the incident.
This case is under investigation, and no other information will be released at this time. Anyone with information should contact the Temple Police Department at 254-298-5500 or the Bell County Crime Stoppers at 254-526-8477, where callers can report anonymously. Tips can also be submitted anonymously at bellcountycrimestoppers.com.