In every tactical training course I’ve ever attended, when we get to the knife combat training portion, the instructor always begins:
“In a knife fight, you have two options: run or get cut.”
You don’t get out of a knife fight without getting bloodied, and a knife-wielding suspect can close a considerable distance before a LEO can get their weapon unholstered. LEOs are not trained in knife combat (usually). Likewise, if someone has a knife and is refusing orders, they should be dispatched. There’s no talking down someone with murder on their mind.
I have been trained in knife fighting including by a Marine combat instructor. Trust me, a knife can kill. Easily. Generally 21 feet is considered danger close for anyone trained and even just experienced (ie street trained). But this moron Williams probably doesn’t know that.