The Baltimore Police Department (BPD) has announced an investigation into an officer-involved shooting in the Western District.
On April 2, at approximately 12:16 p.m., Western District patrol officers responded to the intersection of Wilson and Brunt Streets for a report of a man being assaulted by multiple individuals.
While officers were responding, a Western District detective monitoring CCTV footage observed the assault and directed officers toward the individuals as they fled the scene.
Upon arrival, officers observed one of the suspects, later identified as 35-year-old Tavon Newton, on the 1700 block of Pennsylvania Avenue. When officers approached, Newton fled on foot, prompting a brief pursuit.
Officers attempted to take Newton into custody in a nearby parking lot, where a physical struggle ensued. During the encounter, Newton resisted repeated verbal commands and refused to relinquish a black sling bag in his possession.
Although an officer deployed a taser in effort to gain compliance, Newton continued to struggle and gained control of the officer’s taser during the altercation. One officer then discharged his firearm, striking Newton.
Officers rendered medical aid and requested emergency medical services. Newton was transported to an area hospital, where he is currently listed in stable condition.
Officers recovered a handgun from Newton’s sling bag and a knife from the scene.
The officer who discharged his firearm was reported to be a four-year veteran of BPD. The officer also deployed his taser during the encounter.
The incident is under investigation by the Special Investigation Response Team (SIRT), in coordination with the State’s Attorney’s Office. BPD has activated its Critical Incident Policy.
