Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas has defended the actions of an officer who shot an armed man during a fireworks-related investigation earlier this month, calling the use of force “appropriate” based on the threat posed. The department also released body-worn camera footage from the incident on Wednesday.
The shooting occurred on July 1, when officers responded to reports of illegal fireworks in a Denver neighborhood. According to police, while investigating, officers encountered a man who was armed with a handgun.
Bodycam video shows officers giving multiple commands before the situation escalated and one officer opened fire, striking the suspect. The man was transported to a hospital and is expected to recover.
Chief Thomas said the officer’s decision to fire was justified due to the immediate threat to public and officer safety. “The footage clearly shows our officer faced a potentially deadly situation. Based on our preliminary review, the response was appropriate and in line with department policy,” he said at a press conference.
The Denver Office of the Independent Monitor is also conducting a review of the incident, as is standard procedure in officer-involved shootings. The suspect’s name has not been released, and no charges have been announced as of yet.
The footage has sparked discussion in the community, with some residents urging a full investigation while others have expressed support for the police response.
The Denver Police Department has encouraged anyone with additional information or video of the incident to come forward.
