In a devastating incident in California, 15-year-old autistic boy Ryan Gainer was shot dead by police after charging towards them with a bladed gardening tool.
The harrowing bodycam footage reveals the critical moments leading up to the fatal encounter.
Fatal Police Shooting Unveiled: Autistic California Teen, 15, Fatally Shot After Confrontation
Ryan Gainer’s encounter with law enforcement turned fatal as he ran out of his Apple Valley home in San Bernardino county, prompting deputies to issue a warning before opening fire.
The incident unfolded following a 911 call reporting Gainer’s assault on family members and property damage.
California Police Tragedy: Bodycam Captures the Heartbreaking Moments of Autistic Teen’s Shooting
The released bodycam footage captures the tense situation as deputies respond to the 911 call. A deputy can be heard warning Gainer before shots are fired.
The incident, now under investigation, occurred after the teenager charged at officers with a five-foot-long gardening tool.
Deadly Confrontation: Autistic Boy, 15, Shot by Police in California – Bodycam Video Reveals Details
According to official reports, Gainer charged at the officers upon their arrival, wielding the gardening tool.
The deputy’s attempts to retreat were met with aggression from the teen, leading to the use of lethal force.
Gainer received medical aid but was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital.
Police Shoot Autistic Teen: Disturbing Bodycam Footage Emerges from the Tragic Incident in California
The incident prompts Sheriff Shannon Dicus to call for a strengthened social safety net for those experiencing mental illness.
While recognizing the challenging nature of law enforcement’s daily calls, Dicus acknowledges the tragedy for Gainer’s family and the deputies involved.
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