Dramatic bodycam footage has emerged showing the harrowing final moments of a police pursuit in Westminster, Colorado, where officers made the controversial decision to deliberately strike an armed suspect with their patrol vehicle.
The incident, which occurred in late August, began when Westminster police officers attempted to apprehend a suspect wanted for questioning in a separate case. What started as a routine police operation quickly escalated into a life-or-death situation that would end in tragedy.
The Chase Unfolds
According to official reports, the suspect immediately fled on foot when officers approached. The pursuit continued through residential areas, with police body cameras capturing every tense moment. During the chase, the suspect can be seen reaching for a handgun, raising the stakes considerably for the pursuing officers.
"The suspect was armed and presented a clear danger to both officers and the public," a police spokesperson stated in the aftermath. "The decision to use the vehicle was made as a last resort to prevent potential loss of life."
Controversial Tactics
In the shocking footage, officers can be heard shouting commands before one police vehicle accelerates toward the suspect, striking him directly. The impact sends the man flying through the air before he lands motionless on the pavement.
Emergency medical services rushed to the scene, but despite their efforts, the suspect was pronounced dead. The entire incident lasted mere minutes but has raised serious questions about police procedures and use of force protocols.
Investigation Launched
The Westminster Police Department has placed the involved officers on administrative leave pending a full investigation. The 17th Judicial District Critical Incident Team has taken over the case to ensure impartiality.
Local community leaders have called for transparency, while police unions have defended the officers' actions as necessary given the armed threat. The case continues to spark debate about appropriate police responses to armed suspects in residential areas.
