What Should I Do Immediately Following a Self-Defense Shooting?

Published on April 10, 2022
Duration: 16:35

This guide outlines critical steps to take immediately following a lawful self-defense shooting. It emphasizes assessing the situation, securing the firearm, making a limited 911 call, calmly interacting with arriving law enforcement, and exercising the right to remain silent until an attorney is present. The advice is based on legal principles and practical experience in self-defense scenarios.

Quick Summary

Immediately following a self-defense shooting, assess the situation for threats and injuries, then secure your firearm by returning it to its holster. Call 911 with only essential information: your identity, location, victim status, and the need for medical aid. Comply fully with arriving law enforcement, keeping hands visible, and invoke your right to an attorney before making any statements.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Post Self-Defense Shooting Actions
  2. 00:41Video Engagement & Disclaimers
  3. 00:57Legal Disclaimers and Scope
  4. 02:52Washington State Use of Force Law Overview
  5. 03:40Immediate Actions: Assess the Situation
  6. 04:39Handling the Firearm Post-Shooting
  7. 05:13Calling 911: Critical Information
  8. 06:23911 Operator Role and Call Recording
  9. 07:18Limited Information for 911
  10. 08:07Law Enforcement Arrival: The Reality
  11. 10:14Interacting with Law Enforcement
  12. 11:25Following Law Enforcement Commands
  13. 12:11Disarmament and Potential Custody
  14. 13:36The Most Important Step: Your Rights
  15. 14:50Summary of Post-Shooting Protocol
  16. 15:54Contact Information and Closing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first priority after a self-defense shooting?

The absolute first priority after a self-defense shooting is to assess the situation. This involves determining if the threat has been neutralized, checking for personal injuries, and evaluating the safety of the immediate environment to decide whether to stay or relocate.

How should a firearm be handled immediately after a self-defense shooting?

If possible, the firearm should be immediately returned to its holster in the exact condition it was in when the last round was fired. This preserves evidence and ensures the weapon is safely stored. If a holster isn't available, place the firearm securely nearby.

What information should be given to 911 after a self-defense shooting?

When calling 911 after a lawful self-defense shooting, provide only essential details: your name, date of birth, a description of yourself, your location, the fact that you were the victim of a crime, and that someone requires medical attention. Avoid elaborating on the incident itself.

What is the correct response when law enforcement arrives after a self-defense incident?

Upon law enforcement's arrival, remain calm, keep your hands visible and above your head, and follow all commands precisely. Identify yourself and state the weapon's location if asked, but do not reach for it. Be prepared for potential handcuffing and temporary custody.

What should you say if law enforcement wants to question you after a self-defense shooting?

If questioned by law enforcement after a self-defense shooting, you should invoke your right to remain silent by stating: 'I am not able to make any statement to you or any other member of law enforcement until I first had an opportunity to speak with my attorney.'

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