A 14-year-old boy who was fatally shot by Tempe police was encountered while burglarizing a car, and holding a replica airsoft gun.
The officer involved was responding to a suspicious vehicle call when he came in contact with the suspect, who then fled on foot, but while holding a gun. The gun was later determined to be a BB gun.
“The suspect turned towards the officer at which point the officer perceived a threat and fired his service weapon at the suspect,” said Tempe Police Sgt. Ron Elcock, according to ABC 7.
The 14-year-old suspect was identified as Antonio Race.
“I just know he’s doing better, in a better place now,” Jason Gonzalez, the teen’s brother, told KNXV. “A police officer has a Taser gun right? Why not shoot a Taser at him? He sees a young boy, my brother wouldn’t shoot. I know he wouldn’t shoot.”
ABC 15 is reporting that protests have already been planned, even though few facts about the incident have been made public.
Authorities have stated they plan to release more information to the press tomorrow.
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