A late-night mental health call in Columbia, Maryland turned tragic when three Howard County police officers shot and killed a man who authorities say refused to drop a knife early Sunday morning.
The incident unfolded just after midnight outside Patuxent Commons, a newly opened apartment community on Freetown Road in the Hickory Ridge neighborhood. The complex is known for offering affordable housing for senior citizens and individuals living with disabilities.
How the Encounter Began
According to investigators, police received a 911 call at approximately 12:09 a.m. from a man who allegedly made threats to harm himself.
Dispatch audio reveals first responders were speaking directly with the caller when he began making suicidal statements. Officers arrived at the apartment complex but were initially unable to locate him inside his unit…