Minnesota police officer cleared in fatal shooting of man who shot him first

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A St. Paul police officer was proven right when he shot and killed a man who shot him first, Minnesota prosecutors said Thursday.

The Ramsey County Prosecutor's Office said it concluded that Officer Michael Tschida's use of deadly force against Brandon DaleShaun Keys, 28, of Maplewood, on Dec. 7 was consistent with state law and that the officer should not face charges.

According to a report from two of the office's top prosecutors, Tschida responded to a 911 call that day from the mother of Keys' child. She told a dispatcher she had a restraining order against Keys and was trying to run away while he rammed her van with his car several times and smashed her windshield. She also said he had a gun.

The vehicles were stopped near the intersection of Cretin and Marshall avenues when Tschida arrived. He ordered Keys to the ground, but Keys came out from behind his car and, from about 10 feet away, fired three shots at Tschida, who was trying to take cover. One bullet struck Tschida in the leg before he returned fire, the report said. Keys was shot in the head and died the next day.

Tschida told state investigators Criminal Apprehension Bureau that he had no doubt that Keys was trying to kill him and possibly others, and that he had to shoot to save himself and others.

According to the report, toxicology tests showed the presence of amphetamines, opiates and a cocaine metabolite in Keys' blood. His child's mother told investigators he suffered from addiction.

“The truth is that too often police officers are called to dangerous situations and must risk their lives to protect those who call on them and our community. We should appreciate this act of public service while recognizing the profound loss felt by Mr. Keys’ family and friends,” said Ramsey County Prosecutor John Choi. wrote in response reporting.