Lubbock Officer Kills Man After Suspect Refuses to Surrender Knife

According to a police spokesman, the man who was killed was 32-year-old Anthony Nichols.  Police say that 10:08 p.m. Monday, Nichols called LPD dispatch, said he had a gun and was going to use it.  When officers arrived, Nichols had a knife, approached officers, and refused to surrender.  Police spokesman Sgt. Jonathan Stewart explains what happened next.

“As Nichols closed in on the officers, officer Norris Roberson fired, the male was struck by the rounds, and went down to the ground.  Mr. Nichols was transported to UMC and he was pronounced deceased early this morning several hours after the incident.”

The spokesman said that under the circumstances, it was appropriate for Roberson to fire his gun.  Roberson has been placed on paid administrative leave while the shooting is being investigated.