Newly released bodycam footage has revealed the shocking moment when a police officer in Tennessee shot and killed a man who attempted to rob an armored car employee and then charged at the officer with two knives. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday morning, has left authorities and onlookers stunned.
It all began around 9:15 a.m. when officers from the Murfreesboro Police Department were called to respond to a robbery at an ATM. According to the police spokesperson Larry Flowers, the suspect, identified as 44-year-old Steven James Murphy, had tried to rob an armored car employee who was refilling cash in the machine. However, instead of succeeding in his attempt, Murphy was met with resistance from the worker who pulled out a gun, prompting him to flee the scene.
After running into a nearby deli, the situation took a dangerous turn as Murphy began wielding two knives and threatening the officer who had followed him into the establishment. In the newly released bodycam footage, Officer Adam Claiborne can be seen opening the door of the deli and addressing Murphy before he charges at him with knives in hand.
In a desperate attempt to stop the suspect, Claiborne can be heard repeatedly yelling at Murphy to drop the weapons, but he refuses to comply. In a split-second decision, Claiborne opens fire, shooting several shots at Murphy.
This is officer Adam Claiborne, who opened fire on a suspect who tried to rob an armored vehicle on Wednesday then ran into a Deli and was armed with two large knives. He charged at Officer Claiborne, who opened fire. https://t.co/7Di2BRDgnZ
— FoxNashville (@FOXNashville) November 23, 2023
Despite immediate medical attention, Murphy succumbed to his injuries and passed away shortly after his arrival at the hospital. Authorities have confirmed that the officer, the armored car worker, and employees in the deli were unharmed during the incident.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has taken over the case and is currently conducting a thorough investigation into the shooting. In a statement released to the press, the agency urged the public to be patient and allow them to gather all the necessary information before any conclusions are drawn.
The shocking footage of the shooting has left many community members in disbelief as they struggle to make sense of the events that unfolded. Murfreesboro Police Chief Michael Bowen also expressed his shock at the incident, stating that it is never easy for an officer to be placed in a situation where they have to take a life.
The incident has once again sparked debates on the use of force by police officers and the difficult decisions they have to make in life-threatening situations. The Murfreesboro Police Department has released a statement assuring the public that they will be transparent throughout the investigation process.
