Knife + throat = Saved a bullet and damage to the cruiser.
I've dealt with this about six times. The last thing you want to do is get within range of the hooves or antlers of a thrashing deer. If it's moving around it's REALLY EASY to miss a head shot. Was there when one officer missed three shots within six feet (he sucked on the range too)
Best way to take a head shot is to get behind and above the deer, so he doesn't spook, and place the shot between the ears. If he's moving around too much, just take a heart/lung shot, remember, the heart on a deer is low, right behind the sternum.
Cop must not have much experience as a hunter. It is not as simple as the obvious to blast a deer in the head. It's brain is not very big and chances are the poor deer will suffer if hit elsewhere in the head or eye.
Running over it is not so great on the meat either. Too bad.
Inept.