Bridgeport officer justified in shooting man who ran at police with knives

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Bridgeport, CT - BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) — A Bridgeport officer was justified in shooting a man who ran at police with knives in 2024, according to a report from the Office of Inspector General.

On May 16, 2024, around 6 a.m., officer Israel Colon responded to a man, identified as 49-year-old Dale Stephenson, acting erratically on Birdseye Street.

Police said Stephenson was holding two large knives above his head before charging at officers.

Colon fired three gunshots at Stephenson, seriously injuring him.

Stephenson was struck by two bullets in his left forearm and left leg, according to the report.

He was transported to St. Vincent’s hospital for treatment and was charged with first-degree criminal attempt to commit assault.

Further investigation of the area revealed two swords, according to the report.

The Office of Inspector General said Colon did not have time to use de-escalation techniques and his use of force to defend himself was justified.

“Under the totality of the circumstances, I therefore conclude that the use of deadly physical force by Officer Israel Colon was justified under Connecticut law,” The Office of Inspector General said. “Accordingly, my office will take no further action on this matter.”