East Pittsburgh cop Michael Rosfeld says he shot Antwon Rose because perceived lethal threat
While being questioned in court, former East Pittsburg officer Michael Rosfeld said that the circumstances behind the shooting death Antwon Rose II were chaotic and he was forced to act fast
Former East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld testified Thursday that he when he shot unarmed teen Antwon Rose, he thought a gun was aimed at him, The Associated Press reports.
His testimony in Harrisburg, Pa., was part of the second day of court proceedings into his trial in which he is charged with the 17-year-old’s slaying. Rosfeld is facing life behind bars if convicted on one count of criminal homicide.
READ MORE: Trial begins for Pittsburgh cop who fatally shot unarmed Black teen Antwon Rose II
On the stand, Rosfeld couldn’t contain his emotions as he recalled that fatal day Rose was gunned down. “I was upset, shocked,” he said. “He was moaning, trying to breathe.”
A witness gave testimony admitting that Rosfeld said repeatedly, “I don’t know why I shot him. I don’t know why I fired.” Another prosecution witness said Rosfeld asked: “Why did he do that? Why did he take that out of his pocket?”
According to reports, the 17-year-old was riding as a passenger in an unlicensed taxicab when the back-seat passenger, Zaijuan Hester, 18, rolled down a window and shot at two men on the street, wounding one in the abdomen.
READ MORE: After a dramatic day, trial of white officer fatally shooting Antwon Rose II continues
When Rosfeld pulled over the vehicle a short time later, Rose attempted to flee and the officer shot him three times; in his face, elbow and back, NBC News reported.
Prosecutors said Rosfeld gave varying statements about the shooting.
A defense witness Clifford W. Jobe Jr. a retired state trooper and use-of-force expert said Rosfeld followed protocol.
“I can’t fault Officer Rosfeld,” Jobe said, referring to his tactic as “textbook.”
Rosfeld said when he pulled the car over containing the teens, the rear windshield was shot out. He claims he ordered the driver to the ground as he got out and motioned over to the car. Hester, he said, jumped out.
READ MORE: Mourners seek justice in Antwon Rose’s fatal shooting by police
“It happened very quickly,” Rosfeld said. “My intent was to end the threat that was made against me. I just wanted to end the threat to me. I followed the threat and fired. I just saw that person moving, so I assumed the threat was still there.”
Rosfeld’s attorney, Patrick Thomassey, asked why did he chose to fire his weapon instead of letting the suspects flee. Rosfeld answered: “Because I thought one of them was pointing a weapon at me. They were dangerous felon suspects. They had just fired a gun at someone.”
