James Craig Simpson, 31

Las Vegas, Nevada
May 14, 2016

Agencies: Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Nevada

Cause of death: Shooting

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Last updated: almost 6 years ago

Overview

Police provided body camera video that shows Metro Officer Abudhabi Lewis pleading with Simpson to step away from his handgun.

McMahill said Simpson continued to look at officers while keeping an eye on his firearm.

Nicky was then deployed by his handler, Sgt. Eric Kerns. When Simpson saw the dog coming, he began running and fired a shot at officers.

“The officers recognized the threat and fired their weapons at Simpson,” McMahill said.

McMahill said Nicky latched on to Simpson but couldn’t bring him to the ground. Simpson then fired at Kerns, and Kerns and other officers returned fire. Simpson was struck six times and fell to the ground. Nicky was struck once.

“As I sit here today, it is unknown which officer’s round struck K9 Nicky. Simpson sustained several gunshot wounds during the exchange of gunfire, leaving him paralyzed,” McMahill said.

McMahill said Simpson remains in critical condition at University Medical Center but has been stabilized. He further said Simpson is unable to speak to officers about the incident.