On May 19th, 2021, officers from the Denver Police Department were dispatched to Federal Boulevard and Harvard Avenue, after a 9-1-1 caller observed a man cutting himself with a knife.

As officers arrived in the area, they immediately located the man sitting under a tree. Upon exiting their cruisers, Officer Katie Phillips armed herself with a less lethal paintball gun, loaded with pepper spray rounds. With innocent bystanders in the area, officers began commanding the man to drop the knife. Disregarding the officers commands, the man began walking in the direction of Officer Phillips. In response, officer Phillips discharged multiple pepper spray balls at the man, however he continued to close distance between himself and the officers.

An additional responding officer, Officer Archuleta, then drew his less lethal taser, furthering their attempt to save the mans life. While discharging his taser at the suspect, officer Phillips simultaneously discharged her service weapon, striking the man and neutralizing him. Denver Fire Department and Paramedics were already on the scene at the time of the shooting. The man was provided medical aid and was transported to a local medical facility. He later succumbed to his injuries.

Do you think more timing should have been left between the second less lethal attempt? Do you believe officer Phillips was justified in her use of lethal force? Let us know what you think in the comments below.