This bodycam footage, provided by Akron, Ohio's Police Department, shows one of their officers engaging a suspect with what appears to be a weapon in-hand. The officer shoots the suspect, later revealed to be a 15-year-old male, and then provides medical aid. Although the suspect survives, due to his age, viewer discretion is advised.

Reports were called in of a young male (identity not disclosed due to age) walking in a neighborhood and pointing a gun at houses. When the officer locates the suspect, he sees the weapon in-hand and shoots. In a comparatively rare instance for law enforcement, the officer puts one round in the suspect's gun hand, causing him to drop the weapon. Blood from the injury can be seen at 0:23 as Akron officers effect the suspect's arrest.

Immediately after cuffing him, the police officers render aid, shearing away his jacket sleeve and applying a tourniquet. The suspect was transported to an area hospital and treated for the non-life-threatening gunshot. After the fact, the weapon in the suspect's hand was found to be a fascimile. Naturally, an officer is not expected to make that nearly-impossible distinction in the fractions of a second it takes to get shot at close range. The police would have been legally justified in shooting to kill. That said, given the variables at play, including the suspect's young age and the necessary speed in decision making, the outcome of this incident is probably the best that could be. Fast, precise, professional and empathetic work. A damned fine job.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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