Cops must sometimes use deadly force.
As protectors of the citizenry we understand that.
As a community we even authorize it--realizing that in carrying out their responsibilities there may be times when they must shoot to kill.
The decision is often made in a split second, but the results can last a life time.
In Norfolk this week officers had to kill a young man they say pointed a gun at them.
While covering the story I realized how difficult the situation can be for everyone.
The victim's family lived in the area.
As they gathered at the scene, they verbally lashed out at police.
They were angry, they just lost a loved one.
Despite the circumstances they wanted answers.
Police were in a difficult position.
Conducting an investigation is not easy under such tense circumstances.
Unwilling or unable to answer relative's questions may give off a certain air of uncaring, yet most were probably just doing their job.
One officer accused us of creating a public safety hazard with our cameras, and told us to leave.
We didn't--any lack of order was that way long before we arrived.
Again, l reiterate, it's a tough situation for everyone.
The investigation will likely take days, maybe even weeks, and no matter the outcome, the lives and families of everyone involved have been and will forever be changed.
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