African-American man Alton Sterling, who was shot dead on Tuesday by two policemen in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was armed during the confrontation with the officers, Baton Rouge Police Chief Carl Dabadie said in a press conference.
“When officers arrived, Sterling was armed and the altercation ensued that resulted in the loss of his life,” Dabadie stated on Wednesday.
A video emerged after the incident of two Baton Rouge police officers appearing to hold Sterling down on the ground before shooting him multiple times in the back and chest.
Police officials said the officers were called to the scene after being informed of reports that a man was threatening an individual with a gun outside a local store.
Dabadie said the FBI and the US Justice Department will investigate the incident. He has also urged protesters participating in rallies against the shooting to remain peaceful.
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