October 24th 2024.
The Colorado Springs Police Department has recently provided new information and released footage from body-worn cameras following a fatal shooting involving a 41-year-old man. The man, identified as Matthew Kemper, was allegedly in the midst of a mental health crisis and ran at police with a knife.
According to Cmdr. Patrick David in a video update on the city's website, the incident began when a resident called 911 about their roommate making suicidal statements and holding a knife with blood on his hands and face. When officers arrived at the scene on Prairie Grass Lane, they spoke to one of the roommates outside while the other called 911 again, reporting that Kemper was still acting erratically and cutting himself.
Unfortunately, the body-worn cameras of two of the three officers did not record at the start of the incident due to a possible technical failure, which is currently under investigation. However, edited footage from the cameras shows the officers approaching the house and announcing themselves. One officer can be heard saying "He's got blood all over his face." Another officer tells the roommate to come outside, but then suddenly shouts "No, no, no, stay, stop!" before firing his gun four times.
The officer who shot Kemper has been identified as Noah Bartron, a patrol officer who has been with the department for over 2 years. The officers were attempting to de-escalate the situation and remove the roommate from the home for safety reasons when Kemper unexpectedly rushed at them with the knife, according to David.
Despite the officers' efforts to provide medical assistance, Kemper was pronounced dead at the hospital. The incident is currently being investigated by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office and will be reviewed by the Fourth Judicial District Attorney's Office to determine if any charges should be filed.
In light of this tragic event, it is important to remember the resources available for those struggling with mental health and suicidal thoughts. The Colorado Crisis Line, Mental Health First Aid, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Crisis Text Line, and Second Wind Fund are all valuable resources that provide support and assistance. Let us come together as a community to prevent any further loss of life.
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