This compilation of bodycam footage shows Greenville, South Carolina Deputies attempting to apprehend a suspect who had recently murdered his mother as well as his romantic partner. The suspect is killed in the course of the incident, and therefore viewer discretion is advised.

Gary Whitten, the suspect, is hiding in a mobile home when the video begins. Sheriff's Deputies stage around the trailer, attempting to call Whitten out to surrender. At 0:10 seconds, one of these callouts is audible. "Come on out, man." However, when Whitten steps onto the porch, he extends his arms, holding a metal object in a weapon-like manner. This prompts the deputies to open fire. Over six seconds, 20 rounds are fired, many of them well after Whitten falls to the ground.

A different viewpoint from a second Deputy shows a clearer view of Whitten as he steps onto the porch. The Deputy identifies the object in Whitten's hand as a gun, at which point he and the others open fire. Although he was treated for his injuries, Gary Whitten was pronounced on-scene. However, when recovered, the object in his hand was reavealed to be a showerhead. Despite this, the shoot was ruled as justified, due to the circumstances and manner in which Whitten presented it.

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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