Bridgeport Police Shoots Man Brandishing Knife; State PD Investigates

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Bridgeport police shot a suspect in the lower leg who was brandishing a knife early Thursday, and an investigation into the incident is underway by the Office of Inspector General, Connecticut State Police, and the Office of the State’s Attorney in Bridgeport.

According to authorities, the suspect was transported to Saint Vincent’s Medical Center immediately following the shooting, where he is listed in stable condition. No other injuries were reported.

The incident occurred just before 6 a.m. in the 200 block of Birdseye Street in Bridgeport, after police received reports of a suspicious man brandishing a knife.

Upon arrival, officers found the suspect in the street, where he was shot by police. The circumstances of the incident; how many officers discharged their weapons; and how many rounds were fired were not disclosed.

In an earlier statement, Tiadora Josef, Bridgeport's Director of Public Information, indicated that multiple officers fired weapons at the suspect.

"When a police officer uses deadly force in the course of his or her duties, it is crucial that a thorough investigation is conducted," wrote Bridgeport Police Capt. Kevin Gilleran in a statement. "As directed by the Connecticut Police Accountability Act, this investigation will be conducted by the Office of Inspector General, the Connecticut State Police Western District Major Crime Squad, and the Office of the State’s Attorney - Judicial District of Bridgeport."

Bridgeport Police Chief Roderick Porter Sr. was apprised of the incident, and is "fully confident that the Office of the Inspector General will ensure a comprehensive, transparent, and impartial investigation."

Under Bridgeport Police Department protocol, the officer(s) involved in the encounter will be assigned out of the Chief’s Office on modified duty until a determination has been made by the Office of the Inspector General.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation should contact the Office of the Inspector General at 203-806-1595. Additional information and developments will come from the Office of the Inspector General.

"We support our Bridgeport police officers as they continue to partner with the community by providing exceptional police services and creating a safe environment through fair and impartial enforcement of the law," Gilleran said.

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