A Denver police officer shot a man on Tuesday night while investigating fireworks in Montbello neighborhood, as reported by the police department.
The incident occurred around 9 p.m. in the driveway of a residence on North Del Rio Court, in the 4300 block, according to Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas during a news briefing.
At the time of the briefing, the man was undergoing surgery for serious injuries sustained in the shooting, Thomas confirmed.
Two Denver officers were on patrol that night and responded to the sound of fireworks in the area, Thomas explained.
Upon arriving at the scene on Del Rio from East 43rd Avenue, the officers encountered a group of five individuals outside a house with a fireworks launcher, Thomas recounted.
One of the individuals attempted to walk away towards the house while reaching for his waistband as the officers approached, Thomas revealed.
Despite commands to stop, the individual reportedly drew a gun from his waistband, facing the officers, according to Thomas.
Subsequently, one of the officers fired two shots at the man, hitting him at least once in the leg. The identities of the man and the officer involved have not been disclosed.
The incident is currently under investigation.
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