The 22-minute, 100-mile-per-hour pursuit started after Cleveland police say they heard shots coming from Russell’s car and approached the vehicle.  Police say the use of deadly force was warranted because Russell tried to use his car as a weapon, ramming police cruisers. Rusty Goodpastor is executive director of the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy. He says using a car as a weapon gives police a reason to fire at the vehicle. And, he says state and city rules on police pursuits vary, but all jurisdictions must consider public safety.

“To be aware of the situation and the totality of the circumstances in which the pursuits involved. And if they feel the pursuit becomes too dangerous, then terminating it may become a better option. It depends on the circumstances. I know many agencies, I’m not sure about Cleveland, will have supervisors on the radio to determine those circumstances as well.”