A Philadelphia police officer accidentally shot his partner in the vest during a chaotic shootout that resulted in the death of a man in a mental health crisis. The incident unfolded after Aaron Rainey, 36, attempted to attack the officers while seeking help at Friends Hospital, where he was taken for a voluntary self-committal. During the confrontation, Rainey grabbed the partner’s weapon, prompting Officer Thomas Thompson to fire and fatally strike him, while also inadvertently hitting his partner.
As investigations continue, the police department is examining body camera footage to understand the alarming events that took place. Rainey’s mother, Tonya Kersey, voiced her belief that the situation could have been handled differently, highlighting the need for better mental health crisis intervention. Both officers involved, one with nine years of service and the other with five, have been placed on administrative duty as authorities delve deeper into the details surrounding this tragedy.
Read full story at www.nbcphiladelphia.com
