St. Paul Police Release Video Of Monday's Deadly Gunfire Exchange

ST. PAUL, MN — The St. Paul Police Department Thursday released video from the deadly gunfire exchange between a police officer and Howard Johnson. Johnson was killed Monday night on the city’s east side.

Sgt. Cody Blanshan and Johnson exchanged gunfire, and Johnson was fatally struck,

"Any loss of life is tragic, and we’re keeping the family and friends of Mr. Johnson in our thoughts as they grieve the loss of their loved one," said St. Paul Chief of Police Axel Henry in a news release.

"We know there aren’t words to alleviate their pain, but we hope the release of these videos will help begin to answer some of their questions. “We extend the same concern to our community members, including our officers, who are also deeply affected by the events that unfolded Monday evening."

Police uploaded the video — which is graphic and could be disturbing to some viewers — online here.

According to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, St. Paul police responded to Earl Street and Hudson Road just after 6 p.m. Monday on reports of a domestic assault.

The 911 caller reported that Johnson was armed, and officers formed a perimeter around the scene, investigators said.

At the same time, a woman was leaving a business on Hudson Road and got into her car. As the woman started to drive away, Johnson approached her vehicle and pointed a gun at her, the BCA said.

St. Paul Police Sgt. Cody Blanshan was in a squad car nearby as part of the perimeter.

"He's right there," Blanshan said to his radio, according to the video. "He's walking eastbound. Got the gun in his right hand. He's pointing it at a car, he's trying to carjack right now."

Blanshan's squad car then struck Johnson, knocking him to the ground, according to investigators.

"Don't do it!" Johnson is heard shouting.

Johnson got up, exchanged gunfire with Blanshan, and was fatally struck. Blanshan was not injured.

Officers handcuffed Johnson and gave him first aid before EMS responded, according to investigators. He was then taken to Regions Hospital, where he died.

BCA agents said they found a .45 caliber Glock Pistol and three .45 caliber bullet casings at the scene. They also found 10 9-millimeter cartridge casings, "consistent with the department handgun Blanshan fired," the BCA said.

"The St. Paul Police Department asked the BCA to investigate the incident," the agency added.

"Once the investigation is complete, the BCA will present its findings without recommendation to the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office for review."