Town of Lyons officer-involved shooting ruled justified

TOWN OF LYONS -- Walworth County Sheriff's officials announced the completion of the review of an officer-involved shooting of a suicidal subject back on May 5th in the Town of Lyons.

Walworth County Deputy Sheriff Wayne Blanchard shot John Brown in the incident.

Sheriff's officials say Brown's mother, Nancy, called 911 to report her suicidal son. John Brown had apparently been drinking with a friend who reported Brown seemed "down" about things.

Officials say Brown's BAC was .182.

Brown reportedly exchanged text messages with an ex-girlfriend and her current boyfriend, expressing anger. That ex-girlfriend later called police, expressing concern and looking to file a complaint.

Brown then reportedly called several friends, expressing his desire to end his life.

Officers responded to the mobile home where Brown lived with his mother, who told officials Brown had a knife and was locked in his room.

An officer saw the knife and ordered Brown to drop it, and he apparently said: "You're going to have to shoot me." When Brown advanced on the officers with the knife in hand, Deputy Blanchard fired at Brown. Brown was killed.

Sheriff's officials determined that this shooting was in self-defense and justified.

Deputy Blanchard will now be restored to full duty from administrative duty.

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