MOBILE, Ala. — The University of South Alabama (USA) police officer who fatally shot a naked freshman was carrying pepper spray and a baton at the time of the incident.
Officer Trevis Austin, a four-year USA employee, was armed with all three weapons when he shot 18-year-old Gil Collar, who was on LSD at the time of the shooting, reports the Associated Press. It is unclear why Austin reached for his gun first; however, USA campus police officials maintain that the decision was proper. The university’s weapons policy states that deadly force is justified only when a suspect has the intent, ability and opportunity to kill or injure someone else.
An attorney for the Collar’s family said that the latest information gives support to their position that the shooting wasn’t justified. A grand jury will review the case to determine whether to file charges.
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