This footage, provided by the US Marshals Service, shows the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force engaged in the apprehension of a suspect. In the course of his attempted arrest, the suspect stabs a police officer in the neck. The situation thus escalated to deadly force, the Marshals open fire and kill him. Viewer discretion is advised.

The Marshals are shown here attempting to apprehend Derek Smith, 34, pursuant to a warrant for his arrest. Smith had violated the terms of his parole, having been implicated in a drug trafficking case. Smith failed to attend a hearing for that case, which prompted his immediate arrest.

The video is from the perspective of one of the Federal officers in the stack. Due to the identities of the Marshals being protected and the cameraman’s position in the rear, it’s difficult to see a lot of what occurs. There is a significant space in time between the Marshals making contact with Smith and making entry, as they formulate a plan. However, Hell breaks loose at 02:08 as a TASER is deployed and fails. In the confined hallway, Smith is able to stab a Marshal three times before retreating back into a bedroom. At 02:23, Smith brandishes a table leg like a club and swings it even as he’s being shot, catching one of the officers with a blow.

Smith was declared deceased at the scene, having been shot in the head, torso and both arms. Three Marshals were treated at an area hospital, but released the same day. No other persons were harmed.

 

About the Author

 

       

     

Cole Simms

     

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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