California police officers responding to a domestic violence call last month faced an unexpected threat when a knife-wielding man not involved in the initial incident charged at them and was fatally shot by one of the officers.
The shooting happened just before 1 p.m. Aug. 22 when Santa Monica police were at the scene of a domestic violence report, the department stated in a news release. Officers were talking with witnesses when they were surprised by a man with a knife and no connection to the original call advanced at police.
"Our officers answer calls for help knowing the circumstances can change in an instant," Chief Darrick Jacob said in a statement.
The suspect, who was not identified by the department, was ordered by police to drop his knife, but he continued to move toward officers, who tried to create distance from the man. When the suspect wouldn't stop charging and relinquish his knife, an officer began shooting.
The suspect was struck by the gunfire, and officers began performing lifesaving measures. He was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
No officers or bystanders were injured in the incident. Officers recovered multiple knives at the scene.
"I recognize the lasting impact an incident like this can have on the officers and personnel who responded, and they have my support," Jacobs stated.
Mayor Caroline Torosis also praised the officers for how they responded to such a volatile and escalating situation.
"I am grateful for the courage our officers showed in the face of an armed threat and for the lifesaving efforts that followed," she said in a statement. "Our officers are part of this community, and violence against them puts everyone around them at risk. Their safety is inseparable from the safety of the people they serve. The officers and personnel who responded that day deserve our gratitude and support for their bravery, compassion and commitment to Santa Monica."
