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LAS VEGAS, NV — What began as a minor fender bender quickly escalated into a fatal self-defense shooting Monday evening on the westbound 215 Beltway near Jones Boulevard, according to Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD).
Police say the incident started when one driver rear-ended another vehicle. The driver who caused the accident got out of his car to check on the other motorist and assess the situation.
As he approached, the other driver unexpectedly jumped out of his vehicle armed with a knife and immediately began chasing him. The unarmed driver ran around his car several times attempting to evade the armed attacker before managing to re-enter his vehicle, where he retrieved a firearm.
The knife-wielding suspect then began stabbing the tires and slashing at the vehicle while the armed driver exited and ordered him to back away. The suspect then lunged toward him with the knife, prompting the man to fire multiple shots and strike the attacker.
The shooter remained at the scene and reportedly attempted to render aid until emergency responders arrived. Despite these efforts, the suspect was pronounced dead on scene.
The man who fired the shots cooperated fully with police at the scene and, based on available information, has since been released after speaking with investigators.
In a press conference, police stated they believe this was a self-defense shooting, which appears consistent with the details currently available. No other individuals or vehicles were struck by gunfire.
This incident offers several important reminders for armed citizens. First, the defender was forced to return to his vehicle to retrieve his firearm. Fortunately, he was able to access it in time, but carrying on-body greatly reduces response time during a sudden life-threatening attack. A vehicle is not a holster, and a gun stored in the glovebox or mounted inside the car may not always be reachable when seconds count.
Additionally, while the attempt to render aid reflects a willingness to help, it may not always be the safest course of action when dealing with a potentially still-dangerous attacker. The primary focus should always be ensuring personal safety until law enforcement secures the scene.
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