Investigators have cleared Sterling Heights police officers of any wrongdoing in a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred in December during a welfare check, according to the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office.
ORIGINAL: Armed Sterling Heights Man Points Gun at Officers, Shot and Killed During Welfare Check
The sheriff’s office announced it has completed its independent investigation and found no evidence to support criminal charges against the officer who discharged his weapon. Investigators concluded the use of force was justified and consistent with Michigan law, as well as applicable agency policies, standards, and guidelines. The case has now been officially closed.
The shooting occurred on December 3 at a condominium building in the 44000 block of Apple Blossom Drive in Sterling Heights. Deputies were asked to investigate after the Sterling Heights Police Department requested an outside review, consistent with department protocol.
Authorities say officers were responding to a welfare check involving 54-year-old Nicolas Reinaldo Quaranta, who had reportedly made statements indicating an intent to shoot himself. Responding officers and trained crisis negotiators spent more than one hour attempting to de-escalate the situation.
According to investigators, Quaranta was armed and at times pointed a firearm at his own head. He eventually sat at the top of a staircase inside the condominium and repeatedly refused officers’ requests to come down the stairs and exit the building.
Investigators state that Quaranta later stood up, bent over, retrieved his firearm, and raised it toward officers. At that point, an officer discharged his weapon.
Officers immediately called for medical assistance and rendered aid at the scene, but Quaranta was pronounced deceased. No officers were injured during the incident.
With the investigation now complete, the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office has determined the officer’s actions were justified and that no criminal charges will be pursued.
Discuss this on our Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1BqJ9umw1H/