They could have backed away. But I think it became a life or death situation after one officer had been bloodied and the person with the machete was in the middle of a back swing in attempt to inflict further damage.
We’re talking microseconds here. The officers were attempting to collar him and take away his weapon. Their natural reaction was to switch from an offensive to a defensive position to protect their lives when attacked.
Again, the circumstances surrounding this incident should never have led to a life or death confrontation. There is blame on both sides.
Well said.
There usually IS blame on both sides. Microseconds. Many people have tremendous bias, on whichever side, and blame one side or another without even knowing the full story.
Monday morning quarterbacks.