This recorded dispatch radio traffic and accompanying bodycam footage depict a Phoenix Police Officer engaging a person suspected of brandishing a handgun on multiple occasions. Due to the age of the suspect, and the violent nature of the encounter, viewer discretion is advised.

The radio traffic indicates that the suspect is a minor, at 17 years of age. The suspect’s age being known and the responding officer mentioning that this has happened the previous day suggests that the police have a firm understanding of who their subject is. However, it is no secret that a gun can kill anyone, regardless of the age of the wielder. Therefore the officer takes no chances, exiting his vehicle at 0:21 with his weapon drawn. The suspect, his face obscured due to his age, flags the officer with his handgun as he attempts to sprint away. The officer opens fire, causing the suspect to drop his handgun and sprawl out over a low concrete wall nearby. We see the officer cuffing the subject at 0:44 before a still frame of the suspect and weapon.

Crucial takeaways: The suspect had engaged in this behavior multiple times, and could have killed the officer despite being a minor. Also, the bodycam footage shows how quickly these incidents can happen- this officer had to make a snap decision in the space of a blink. Even with foresight that it’s coming, it’s difficult to catch the moment as it unfolds.

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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