Suspect Lee Derek Larson, in a fatal officer shooting, fled the collision, and pointed a firearm at police.
Las Vegas police said a 46-year-old man died in an officer-involved shooting Feb. 6 near the Strip.
Las Vegas Metro Police Department Press Release Re: Lee Derek Larson Shooting
Assistant Sheriff Yasenia Yatomi Discusses February 6, 2024 OIS
Post Date:02/08/2024 4:20 PM
On February 6, 2024, at approximately 1:47 a.m., an LVMPD officer conducting routine patrol observed two individuals sitting inside of a Jeep Liberty parked in the area of Liberace Way and Sherwood Street. As the officer drove past the Jeep, he conducted a U-turn to further investigate the vehicle.
When the officer approached the Jeep, he observed the driver, later identified as 46-year-old Lee Derek Larson, back into an un-occupied parked vehicle causing a collision. Larson and the passenger exited the vehicle to assess the damage.
The officer exited his vehicle and directed the occupants over to him. Larson took off running and a foot pursuit ensued. During the pursuit, Larson pointed a firearm at the chasing officer and was observed running into an alley in the 2500 block of Sherwood Street.
Officer Merren and Maston arrived in the area to assist and encountered Larson in the alley. Officers gave him verbal commands to drop the firearm. Larson refused to comply causing officers to discharge their duty weapons, striking him.
Officers rendered aid until medical personnel arrived, who later pronounced Larson deceased on scene.
The investigation of this incident remains ongoing. An examination of this incident is being conducted by the LVMPD Critical Incident Review Team. This review focuses on policy, tactics, and training as it relates to this use of force.