Police Union Head Claims Thurman Blevins Fired A Shot

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MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO/AP) -- The head of the Minneapolis police union says body-camera video proves two officers were justified in using deadly force in the fatal shooting of a black man.

Lt. Bob Kroll says 31-year-old Thurman Blevins gave officers no other option when he ran from them June 23. Kroll says Blevins pointed the gun at the officers and fired a shot.

"This was nothing short of excellent police work," Kroll said.

Kroll says the officers were within their rights to fire at Blevins.

"Police officers never want to be forced to fire their weapons," Kroll said. "Sadly, Blevins gave them no other options."

The officers were responding to a 911 call of a man firing a gun into the air and into the ground.

"Blevins was shooting a gun in a residential area, he resisted officers, fled, pointed a gun at them and fired," Kroll said. "This is consistent with his criminal history."

Kroll was also asked about his thoughts on the response from Minneapolis' mayor and police chief.

"To me, if someone shot at one of my employees, I'd be a lot more strong and come out. Unfortunately, in this city, you got to pander to the ultra-left in order to get elected," Kroll said. "It's just a sad fact."

The shooting is being investigated by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.