Man shot to death by officers had ‘replica airsoft gun,’ officials say
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A man who was shot to death by multiple Vancouver police officers after he allegedly pointed a gun at people in a McDonald’s parking lot was found to be using a “modified replica airsoft gun” at the time, officials said.
According to the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, the weapon turned out to be “a replica Colt 1911 airsoft gun” that had been taken out of his pocket prior to him being shot by officers. Officials said he was also in possession of a folding-blade pocketknife. Both the knife and the replica gun were later found at the scene by investigators.
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The person who died was identified as 40-year-old Jonathan West Nelson. Investigators said they’ve been in contact with Nelson’s family and updating them on the new information from the investigation.
A man shot to death by Vancouver police officers was holding a ‘replica airsoft’ gun, officials said. July 2, 2024 (courtesy Clark County Sheriff’s Office). A man shot to death by Vancouver police officers was holding a ‘replica airsoft’ gun, officials said. July 2, 2024 (courtesy Clark County Sheriff’s Office). A man shot to death by Vancouver police officers was holding a ‘replica airsoft’ gun, officials said. July 2, 2024 (courtesy Clark County Sheriff’s Office).
Vancouver police officers responded to the scene at the McDonald’s parking lot on Northeast Andersen Road on June 17 around 1 a.m. on reports of a man pointing a gun at people. When they arrived, officers said Nelson did not respond to commands, so they released a K9 on him.
Clark County Sheriff’s Office investigators said reviewing the bodycam footage showed the man producing what appeared to be a firearm, allegedly pointing it at law enforcement. When that happened, four police officers fired at the man and mistakenly shot the dog’s tail, too.
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Authorities said they tried to aid Nelson at the scene, but he was declared dead by hospital staff. The Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office determined he died of “multiple gunshot wounds” on the public sidewalk.
The dog underwent surgery on its tail and returned home the following day.
The four involved officers include Sgt. James Kelly, Officer Jason Haigwood, Officer Justin Reiner and Officer Philip Wilkening. They’ve all been placed on critical incident leave while the shooting investigation continues.
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