Friendswood Identify Officer Who Shot Theft Suspect

FRIENDSWOOD, TX --The Friendswood Police Department has identified Officer Bradley Rusk as the officer involved in a shooting that killed a California man on Nov. 29.

Rusk, 31, a six year law enforcement veteran, is currently on administrative leave as the department investigates the shooting of death of Toby Dean Cummins.

Cummins, 55, was killed after he allegedly confronted Rusk with a box cutter.

On Nov. 29, police were called to the 100 block of South Friendswood Drive around 3:10 p.m., after receiving a call that a man had taken beer from a nearby convenience store without paying.

The man, identified as Cummins, was confronted by Rusk on the sidewalk near the store and was shot.

Police said that Rusk was wearing a body camera and in a statement said, Cummins "came at the officer" brandishing a box cutter before the officer shot the suspect.

Cummins was taken to Clear Lake Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Meanwhile, investigators are asking for the public's help and are hoping witnesses will come forward to provide details to investigators.

Individuals who may have witnessed, or have information are encouraged to call the Friendswood Police Department at 281-996-3300.

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