Arizona Officer Who Shot Man In Wheelchair 9 Times Has Been Fired

An Arizona police officer, who was seen on video shooting a man in a motorized wheelchair 9 times, has been fired.

According to reports 61-year old Richard Lee Richards was accused of shoplifting at a Walmart store. In a surveillance video, Tuscan police officers can be seen slowing walking behind the suspect but it was officer Ryan Remington who took the shots.

Richards had been accused of stealing a toolbox from Walmart and an employee contacted Remington, who was working a special duty assignment at the store.

Tucson’s police chief, Chris Magnus, said the Walmart employee approached Richards and asked him to show him a receipt. Richards responded by pulling out a knife and said: “Here’s your receipt.”

According to Magnus, Remington ordered Richards to stop and hand over the knife, to which the Walmart employee heard Richards say: “If you want me to put down the knife, you’re going to have to shoot me.”

Richards then circled around to reenter the store, and Remington ordered him to stop. “Do not go into the store, sir.” As Richards continued to approach the entrance, Remington fired nine shots and hit Richards on the back and side.

Richards slumped forward and fell to the ground in front of a flower stand and was then quickly handcuffed by Remington.

He was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

Magnus condemned the shooting on Tuesday, saying: “His use of deadly force in this incident is a clear violation of department policy and directly contradicts multiple aspects of our use of force and training.”

Tucson’s mayor, Regina Romero, declared Remington’s actions “unconscionable and indefensible”, adding: “It is moments like this that test our resolve to ensure justice and accountability.”

The Pima County attorney’s office is reviewing the shooting for possible criminal charges against Remington.