Denver Police Officer Andrew Niccum Cleared in Shooting Where Gun Magazine Saved His Life

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Denver Police Officer Cleared in Shooting Incident Where Magazine Saved His Life

A Denver police officer, identified as Andrew Niccum, was declared innocent on Wednesday in a harrowing shooting incident that occurred when one of the suspect’s bullets struck his gun magazine, preventing it from hitting his abdomen. Officer Niccum was also shot in the chest but was fortunately protected by his bulletproof vest.

The incident took place on June 7 in the vicinity of Forest Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Officer Niccum and his colleagues responded to a ShotSpotter alert in the area and were provided with a description of the suspect by a witness, according to the Denver Police Department.

The suspect, later identified as 17-year-old Steve Calderon, attempted to flee on a scooter before continuing on foot and firing at the pursuing officers. Calderon managed to fire two shots, both hitting Officer Niccum.

Remarkably, one of the rounds struck Niccum’s vest, specifically the armor plate, while the other struck his metal pistol magazine. The impact caused the magazine to shatter, and the bullets inside it spilled out. It is believed that the magazine played a significant role in preventing the bullet from penetrating Niccum’s abdomen and causing severe injury.

In response to the threat, Officer Niccum fired eight shots, two of which successfully struck Calderon. The suspect was promptly apprehended at the scene and transported to the hospital for treatment. Thankfully, Calderon has since recovered from his injuries.

Calderon now faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, assault on a police officer, carrying a firearm as a minor, and using a prohibited large-capacity magazine in the commission of a crime, among others.

Denver District Attorney Beth McCann reviewed the case and concluded that Officer Niccum acted in self-defense and justifiably feared for his life when Calderon fired his weapon at him. As a result, McCann determined that the shooting of Calderon was justified.

CBS News Colorado requested additional information and photos of the damaged gun magazine. However, the District Attorney’s Office declined the request, citing the evidence’s importance in the ongoing case against Calderon.

Calderon is currently being represented by the Public Defender’s Office and is being held on a $150,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on January 4.

This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers face daily while performing their duties. The outcome could have been far worse if not for the protective gear worn by Officer Niccum, emphasizing the importance of providing police officers with the necessary equipment to ensure their safety.

As investigations continue and the legal process unfolds, the Denver Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office remain committed to upholding justice and ensuring the safety of the community..