The Phoenix Police Department has released a Critical Incident Briefing video related to an officer-involved shooting that took place earlier this month, on October 2. The footage, which may be difficult for some to watch as it contains strong language and graphic images, gives insight into the tense moments leading up to the shooting, according to the City of Phoenix.
Details from the video and accompanying information narrative confirm that Phoenix officers were responding to reports of an attempted suicide at a residence near 7th Street and Sunland Avenue. A 911 caller had indicated that the man was suicidal and threatened to confront the police if they were to arrive. When officers reached the scene, they engaged with family members outside the home, who reiterated the man's armed and distressed state, as reported by the City of Phoenix.
Emerging with a knife raised, the man ran towards an officer while challenging him verbally, which resulted in a confrontation that the Phoenix Police Department is describing as the critical incident. Ultimately, three officers used force: one discharged their firearm, another used both a less-lethal 40mm launcher and their firearm, and a third deployed a less-lethal pepper ball launcher, as detailed by the City of Phoenix.
The man was attended to at the scene and later transported to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. According to the briefing from the Phoenix Police, the officers involved are part of the South Mountain Precinct and have eight and 17 years of service with the department, respectively. The involved knife was retrieved at the scene, as per the City of Phoenix.
As of now, the Department of Public Safety's Major Incident Division is leading a criminal investigation into the incident, while the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office will review the findings. Additionally, an administrative investigation is underway by the Phoenix Police Department itself. Official statements clarify that conclusions regarding the officers' adherence to department policy and legality will not be determined until the investigation is exhaustive and all facts are established, as reported by the City of Phoenix.
