Denver police released body-worn camera footage capturing the moments leading to officers fatally shooting a knife-wielding individual in Denver earlier this month.
The incident occurred on June 16 at the intersection of Broadway and Lawrence Street. The person killed during the encounter has been identified as 52-year-old Miguel Tapia. Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas stated that officers responded to reports of a person with a knife making aggressive movements toward them. Despite attempts to stop the individual with less-lethal methods, officers resorted to lethal force.
Commander Matt Clark revealed that multiple motorists reported an individual standing in the intersection yelling at passing vehicles, prompting a police response. When officers arrived, Tapia was seen carrying bags with what appeared to be a large knife handle. Despite verbal commands, Tapia brandished the knife at the officers, leading to the use of firearms.
Twelve rounds were discharged at Tapia in two seconds, resulting in the individual’s death on the scene. The investigation revealed the recovered knife had a seven-inch blade. The three involved officers are on modified duty during the ongoing investigation conducted by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, Colorado State Patrol, and the Office of Independent Monitor.
The findings will be presented to the Denver District Attorney’s Office for further action.