BISMARCK, N.D. — The Bismarck Police Department released body camera footage showing a woman striking an officer with her car, leading to a fatal officer-involved shooting, KFYR reported.
During an April 22 news conference, police shared video showing the suspect and officer engaging in conversation following a traffic stop on March 7. The officer smelled odors of marijuana and alcohol coming from the vehicle and asked the suspect to step out.
The suspect refused, reversed her vehicle and drove towards the officers. After both officers avoided being struck, the suspect again reversed the vehicle, driving it backwards several yards. She then drove at officers again.
She struck Officer Matthew James, who was thrown multiple feet over a tall snowbank and into a fence. He struck the fence with so much force that his gun flew out of his hand and landed on the other side of the fence, according to the critical incident release. The suspect can be seen driving up the bank and toward James, who was “laying defenseless.”
Officer Nathan Anderson fired his weapon in response, striking the suspect. The vehicle came to rest on the snowbank, feet away from the injured officer. The suspect later died at the hospital from her injuries, according to the report.
The North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation reviewed the incident and determined that Anderson’s use of force was justified. Burleigh County State’s Attorney Julie Lawyer confirmed no charges would be filed, citing the threat to Officer James’ life.
“Officer Anderson’s quick response likely prevented the loss of Officer James’ life,” said Bismarck Police Chief Dave Draovitch.
Due to the incident, James sustained injuries that will require knee surgery, and he is not expected to return to full duty for at least a year.
Draovitch said the department will review the incident to identify possible improvements in officer safety in future high-risk situations.
