Newly released body camera video shows the moments leading up to a fatal police shooting in Sweetwater involving a man who authorities said was armed with a knife during a domestic disturbance in March.
The Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office closed its investigation last week, determining that the three officers involved were justified in using deadly force.
According to documents from the State Attorney’s Office, Sweetwater Police officers responded to a 911 call involving an argument between a husband and his pregnant wife. The caller warned dispatchers that the man, identified as Frank Diaz, had a knife.
In the newly released body camera footage, officers can be heard repeatedly ordering Diaz to drop the knife.
“Drop the knife right now,” one officer can be heard shouting.
Moments later, an officer can be heard yelling, “Shoot,” before officers open fire.
According to the State Attorney’s Office, three officers discharged their weapons. They were identified as Justin Statefeld, Orlando Villaverde and Francisco Garcia.
Body camera video also shows officers attempting lifesaving measures immediately after the shooting.
“Starting chest compressions,” an officer can be heard saying.
A knife can be seen on the ground near where Diaz collapsed.
Diaz was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following an investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office determined that the officers’ use of deadly force was justified.
The newly released footage provides a closer look at the moments leading up to the shooting and the officers’ response afterward.