Running From The Law Doesn’t End Well In San Antonio

Published on August 22, 2024
Duration: 10:57

This analysis, presented by John Correia and Mike Willever of Active Self Protection, dissects a San Antonio police encounter involving a suspect with multiple violent felony warrants. The video details the suspect's flight while armed and the subsequent use of deadly force by an officer firing through a patrol vehicle's windshield. Expert commentary covers the legal framework of engaging fleeing felons, tactical considerations like backstops and equipment, and the ballistics of shooting through glass, offering insights into officer decision-making and alternative force options.

Quick Summary

Experts analyze a San Antonio police encounter where an officer fired through a patrol car windshield at a fleeing suspect. The discussion covers the legal limits set by Tennessee v. Garner, the ballistics of shooting through glass, and tactical considerations like backstops and equipment, suggesting vehicle ramming as a potential alternative.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Context
  2. 00:45The Encounter and Pursuit
  3. 01:31The Shooting Incident
  4. 02:13Legal Analysis: Tennessee v. Garner
  5. 04:17Equipment Critique: Radios
  6. 05:49Tactical Restraint and Backstops
  7. 07:32Ballistics: Shooting Through Glass
  8. 09:14Alternative Force Options

Frequently Asked Questions

What legal precedent governs the use of deadly force against fleeing felons in the US?

The primary legal precedent is Tennessee v. Garner (1986), which states that deadly force may not be used against a fleeing felon unless it is necessary to prevent escape and the officer has probable cause to believe the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical injury to the officer or others.

How does shooting through a car windshield affect bullet performance?

Shooting through automotive glass can significantly alter a bullet's trajectory, cause it to yaw or tumble, and deform hollow-point projectiles, potentially reducing accuracy and terminal effectiveness. This makes precise targeting and shot placement critical.

What are alternative force options to shooting through a patrol car windshield?

Experts suggest that using the patrol vehicle itself for a low-speed strike can be a more controlled method of stopping a fleeing suspect, avoiding the ballistics complications and risks associated with firing through glass.

Why is backstop awareness important in police encounters?

Backstop awareness is crucial to prevent unintended harm. Officers must consider what lies behind the target; firing into an occupied building or area without a safe backstop poses a severe risk to bystanders and can have legal ramifications.

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