A police officer has shot and killed a 13-year-old after he pulled out a BB gun in Columbus, Ohio.
Officers were called to the Hoffman Street area to reports of an armed robbery involving multiple suspects at around 7:30 pm on Wednesday, September 14.
They attempted to talk to a number of males. Two ran off, and, in the ensuing chase, a teenager identified as Tyree King was shot dead, said Columbus Ohio Police in a statement posted on Twitter.
Part of it reads,
Officers observed three males matching the descriptions in front of 33 Hoffman Street and attempted to speak with them, when two of the males fled on foot. Officers followed the males to the alley in the rear of 27 Hoffman Street and attempted to take them into custody when one suspect pulled a gun from his waistband. One officer shot and struck the suspect multiple times. The male was taken to Nationwide Children's Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead at approximately 8:22 pm. The officers and other suspect were not injured.
Detectives from the Crime Scene Search Unit were dispatched to the shooting and recovered what appeared to be a handgun.
However, on closer inspection, it was determined to be a BB gun.
The suspect who ran off alongside King was arrested and taken in for questioning.
He has since been released pending further investigation.
The statement added all police-involved shootings are investigated.
The officer who shot dead King will be offered psychological support from a counsellor. The statement explains,
Officers are also afforded an opportunity to assist in recovery from a traumatic experience.
Police are now appealing for witnesses to come forward and share information regarding the incident.
Meanwhile, a team will put together a report of the shooting before it goes up for review.
