Tulsa police release body camera video from deadly officer-involved shooting
TULSA, Okla. (KTUL) — Tulsa police released body camera video from a deadly officer-involved shooting on Feb. 18, 2023.
Officers responded to a domestic disturbance and hit-and-run at Spirit 76 Bar around 2 a.m.
According to TPD, when the first officer arrived on the scene, the suspect, later identified as Joshua Taft, was very hostile.
After the officer confronted Taft, he placed his hands in his pockets. When the officer asked Taft to remove his hands from his pockets, he refused and became aggressive, charging towards the officer.
TPD said Taft came within arm's reach of the officer, forcing him to push away to gain distance from him.
Video shows Taft appear to draw a weapon. Taft faced away from the officer, so his pistol could not be seen.
The officer then pulled his gun and backed away, creating distance between himself and Taft.
Taft then took his hands off his hip and rushed toward the officer, saying "Shoot me, bro."
The officer gave several commands for Taft to stop, which he ignored. Taft then grabbed his gun, then turned and pointed it at the officer.
Video shows the officer discharging approximately 10 rounds, hitting Taft.
He dropped his gun and fell to the ground. The officer called for EMSA and repeatedly asked Taft to put his hands behind his back so he could handcuff him and render aid.
When paramedics arrived, Taft was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. He succumbed to his injuries on Feb. 26.
Tulsa police say the officers have been cleared.
