Springfield Detective Cleared in Fatal Shooting After Suspect Stabs Two Officers

SPRINGFIELD, Ore. — A Springfield detective who shot twice at a fleeing suspect was justified in using deadly force, according to the Lane County District Attorney’s Office.

DA Finds That the Failure of the System To Treat Mental Illness Was a Contributing Factor

The DA’s office noted that the ‘tragic incident’ is the result of the failure of the system to address mental health issues. The DA’s office noted that the suspect’s untreated mental illness and reliance on street drugs were contributing factors.

The findings are that Detective Brian Dunn was legally justified in using deadly force in the fatal officer-involved shooting of Daniel Kahn on July 30, when Kahn became involved in a violent confrontation with Springfield police officers.

Described as agitated and disorderly, Kahn caused a disturbance at the Chase Bank on Gateway Boulevard. He then made his way to a nearby bus terminal, where he became aggressive towards Officer Blaser. A struggle ensued, and Kahn stabbed the policeman in the arm, and stabbed Officer Newton in the neck and shoulder.

The DA’s office found that Detective Dunne’s action when he shot at Kahn was necessary to prevent possible harm to civilians in a crowded car wash area.