“Fatal Shooting of Jason Thompson Deemed Justified by Solano County Sheriff’s Office”

The Solano County Sheriff’s Office has determined that the fatal shooting of a man who approached officers with a reciprocating saw blade last year was within department policy. The internal affairs investigation found that deputies took steps to end the confrontation peacefully and were justified in using a Taser on the man prior to the shooting. The incident occurred after the man fled from a hit-and-run collision and deputies responded more than two hours later. The district attorney’s office also cleared the deputy of any criminal charges. An attorney for the man’s family has submitted a claim for damages. The Vallejo Sun reported

The Solano County Sheriff’s Office has determined that the fatal shooting of Jason Thompson last year was within department policy. Thompson was shot by Deputy John Robertson after approaching officers with a reciprocating saw blade. The internal affairs investigation also found that deputies were within policy when they used a Taser on Thompson prior to the shooting.

The incident occurred on June 19, 2022, after Thompson allegedly fled from a hit-and-run collision in Vallejo. Vallejo police were unable to respond, so Solano County sheriff’s deputies arrived more than two hours later. Shortly after their arrival, Deputy Robertson shot and killed Thompson.

The district attorney’s office cleared Deputy Robertson of any criminal charges, stating that he acted within the law. The sheriff’s internal review, conducted by Sgt. Walt Walker, concluded that the deputies took steps to de-escalate the situation and end the confrontation peacefully. They repeatedly commanded Thompson to drop the blades, but he did not comply.

Eyewitnesses previously expressed concerns about the officers’ response, believing it to be excessive. However, the sheriff’s office maintains that the deputies acted appropriately and sought alternative solutions to resolve the situation.

Following the shooting, attorney James Cook submitted a claim for damages on behalf of Thompson’s family, indicating that a lawsuit may follow.

The release of body camera footage showed Deputy Robertson drawing his gun and repeatedly telling Thompson to stop as he approached. Despite the Taser deployment and verbal commands, Thompson continued moving towards Robertson. In a tense exchange, Robertson fired seven shots, causing Thompson to collapse. He later rose to his knees, but was ultimately handcuffed and provided medical attention.

The findings of the internal investigation highlight the challenges faced by law enforcement officers in high-pressure situations. While the incident was tragic, the sheriff’s office maintains that the deputies followed protocol and made efforts to resolve the situation peacefully..

1. Solano County Sheriff’s Office
2. Fatal shooting
3. De-escalation attempts.