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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker announced that two police officers in Wyoming were justified in their actions during a shooting incident involving Luis Hernan Fernandez Sandoval. On September 16, officers responded to a home on Lemyra Street Southeast after receiving reports of an armed man violating a protective order. Sandoval, 31, was found holding a handgun.
Officials say Sandoval had forcibly entered the home, where his estranged wife was hiding, and threatened family members. When officers arrived, they found Sandoval pointing a gun at them. Officers Roetman and Borns opened fire, believing Sandoval posed an imminent threat.
The medical examiner determined that Sandoval was struck by bullets fired by the officers, but the fatal shot was self-inflicted. WOOD TV reported that Sandoval had not fired at the officers, but his actions justified their response.
Prosecutor Becker stated, "The officers had reasonable cause: When you’re looking at self-defense, defense of others, both of these apply here." No criminal charges will be filed against the officers. The incident highlights the challenges officers face in high-pressure situations involving armed suspects.