San Antonio police responded to a disturbance call just before midnight on Monday in the 6700 block of Spring Front Drive. The caller, a 56‑year‑old man, reported that people were in his backyard and that one of them was armed with a gun.
Officer encounters armed suspect
When officers arrived, they first made contact with a woman identified as the caller’s girlfriend. While speaking with her, the responding officer observed the man carrying two large knives. The officer ordered the man to put the knives down, but the man refused to comply.
According to SAPD Acting Chief Jesse Salame, the man then “aggressively advanced” toward the officer. The officer fired multiple rounds, striking the man four times. The victim died at the scene.
Investigation and context
Police indicated that no firearm was found in the backyard, and they believe the man may have been experiencing a mental health episode at the time of the encounter. The officer involved has been with the San Antonio Police Department for approximately one year.
This shooting marks the eighth SAPD‑involved shooting in 2026, according to city data. No other injuries were reported, and the department’s internal investigation remains ongoing.
Community response
Local community leaders and faith‑based organizations have called for transparency in the investigation and for continued support for mental‑health resources. While the incident underscores the challenges law‑enforcement faces when confronting potentially dangerous individuals, officials emphasize the importance of protecting both public safety and the rights of individuals experiencing mental health crises.
The SAPD has pledged to release further details as they become available, and the investigation will be conducted in accordance with departmental policy and applicable state law.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.