MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — A man was shot and killed by police in Berkeley County early Friday morning after authorities say he threatened to “shoot up” a bar.
Berkeley County Sheriff Rob Blair said the threat was made by the man at the Green Frog Bar on state Route 45 at around 1 a.m. Friday.
Blair said sheriff’s deputies and state police arrived on the scene about the same time and found the man, whose name hasn’t been released yet by authorities, in a vehicle parked near the bar.
Blair said the man refused commands from police and showed a handgun.
“The officers engaged the subject upon presentation of the handgun, medical personnel were called to the scene, however the subject was pronounced as deceased,” a news release from Blair said.
Blair called the fatal shooting a tragic situation.
“I am both pleased and relieved that all officers involved were unharmed. As with all officer-involved shootings, each officer will be provided with the resources necessary to support their health and well-being, which remains a top priority,” Blair said. “When our deputies and law enforcement partners are confronted with deadly threats, I expect them to respond appropriately and decisively to protect themselves and the citizens they serve.”
State police are leading the investigation. The information gathered will be turned over to the Berkeley County Prosecutor’s Office for review.
In a separate news release, state police said four troopers were involved in the shooting. All have been placed on critical incident leave pending the investigation.