The following video provides footage from body-worn cameras of the fatal officer-involved shooting from Saturday, September 12. While the independent investigation of the incident is continuing, this video is being released in accordance with the City of West Sacramento’s policy and values for transparency with our community.
WARNING: Some may find the subject matter disturbing. Viewer discretion is advised.
Statement from Interim Police Chief Rob Strange:
The West Sacramento Police Department appreciates the community’s patience and compassion for everyone impacted by this incident. Our administration continues to cooperate with the Davis Police Department as they conduct the independent criminal investigation and as we complete our own internal investigation of the incident and review of department policies. Several months from now the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office will complete its assessment of this officer-involved shooting and issue its findings.
Almost ten days have passed since the events depicted in the linked video. The work compiled through the criminal and administrative investigations has begun to shed light on what occurred in those early morning hours. I have assessed the information gathered through these investigative efforts and have determined that the involved officers will be authorized to return to duty. These officers continue to cooperate with all investigative efforts and other work readiness processes, while they also engage with supportive resources to enable a healthy return to their work serving the residents of West Sacramento.
Statement from Mayor Christopher Cabaldon:
This is the first fatal officer-involved shooting in nearly 20 years in the City of West Sacramento, and our first priority has been to assure the integrity of review, investigation, due process, and civilian oversight. Today’s release of body cam footage of the critical incident is one step by which the City of West Sacramento holds itself accountable.
After reviewing the footage, I felt even more deeply the profound tragedy of Mr. Coleman’s battle with mental illness, as well as the trauma endured both by his family and by police officers on the scene.
We await the independent investigation by the Davis Police Department and District Attorney, which typically concludes several months after an incident. At the same time, multiple internal reviews are underway, both within the West Sacramento Police Department and in the City’s executive office. Pursuant to our policy and standard practice, the Chief is returning the officers from administrative leave after the first review and following an assessment of their readiness.
