Westminster, Colorado (WPD) — On October 1, 2023, around 7:53 p.m., Westminster Police Officer Robb Phelps was dispatched to a disturbance with injuries in the 1400 block of 116th Avenue. As Officer Phelps arrived on the scene, he was met with a chaotic scene as several individuals were engaged in a physical altercation with a male subject in the parking lot.
In an attempt to diffuse the situation, Officer Phelps gave several loud verbal commands to the individuals. However, one person did not comply with the orders. In response, Officer Phelps deployed his Taser in an effort to de-escalate the conflict. To his shock, the individual produced a gun and pointed the weapon at another person. Despite continued loud, verbal commands to drop the gun, the individual did not comply. Faced with an imminent threat to the safety of others, Officer Phelps made the split-second decision to fire one round from his duty weapon, ultimately striking the subject.
Following the shooting, Officer Phelps and his colleagues immediately transitioned to providing life-saving measures until paramedics arrived on the scene. The male subject was then transported to the hospital for further medical treatment; tragically, he succumbed to his injuries and passed away at a later time.
This incident underscores the difficult and dangerous situations that law enforcement officers face on a daily basis. It serves as a reminder of the split-second decisions they are often forced to make in the line of duty, decisions that can have profound and lasting consequences.
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In the wake of the shooting, the Westminster Police Department has initiated a thorough internal investigation to review the circumstances surrounding the use of force by Officer Robb Phelps. This investigation is standard protocol following any officer-involved shooting and is essential for ensuring transparency, accountability, and adherence to departmental policies and procedures.
The department is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and accountability. As part of the ongoing investigation, the Westminster Police Department will work in full cooperation with relevant authorities and agencies to ensure a thorough and impartial review of the events that transpired.
In instances involving the use of deadly force, accountability and transparency are of paramount importance. It is essential that the public has confidence in the integrity and thoroughness of the investigative process. The Westminster Police Department is dedicated to fostering trust within the community and maintaining open lines of communication with the public.
The safety and well-being of all members of the community are fundamental priorities for law enforcement. The Westminster Police Department remains steadfast in its commitment to serving and protecting the public while upholding the principles of justice and accountability.
The incident has sparked conversation and debate about the complexities and challenges faced by law enforcement officers in high-pressure situations. It is a sobering reminder of the risks and responsibilities that come with the job of protecting and serving the community.
As the investigation unfolds, the Westminster Police Department will continue to provide updates and information to the public, demonstrating their dedication to transparency and accountability. This dedication is essential for building and maintaining trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
In conclusion, the events that transpired on October 1, 2023, serve as a critical reminder of the difficult and often dangerous tasks that law enforcement officers undertake on a regular basis. It underscores the complex and unpredictable nature of police work and highlights the heavy burden of responsibility placed on those who serve and protect.
The Westminster Police Department is fully committed to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident, upholding the values of transparency, integrity, and accountability. As the investigation progresses, the department will continue to communicate with the public, fostering trust and understanding within the community. This commitment to transparency and accountability is crucial for establishing and maintaining positive relationships between law enforcement and the residents they are sworn to protect.
