The state’s attorney says the use of force was justified in connection with an officer-involved shooting at a DeKalb car dealership

DEKALB, Ill. (WIFR) – Two DeKalb police officers who shot a stabbing suspect at a car dealership have been found justified, according to an assessment by DeKalb County State’s Attorney Rick Amato.

At approximately 12:30 a.m. Oct. 23, officers were called to Brian Bemis Toyota of DeKalb, 1890 Sycamore Rd., in reference to a customer threatening people with two large knives.

Callers reported that a customer broke a window and stabbed a salon employee.

DeKalb Police say Chief David Byrd and Officer Bollow were the first officers on scene and immediately encountered the suspect, 32-year-old Charles Tripicchio.

State attorney justified use of force in connection with officer-involved shooting at DeKalb car dealership... — The state’s attorney says the use of force was justified in connection with an officer-involved shooting at a DeKalb car dealership(Illinois State Police)

Officer Bollow ordered Tripicchio to drop the knives, but he walked away from the officers. Body camera footage released by Illinois State Police shows Officer Bollow and Chief Byrd ordering Tripicchio to drop his gun, but he refused. Finally, Tripicchio turns to face the officers, raises his hand and says, “Hey, look!” throwing one of the knives at Officer Bollow. Police then fired multiple shots at Tripicchio, wounding him. Officers say Tripicchio dropped the second knife as he fell to the ground.

As officers began to render aid to Tripicchio, they kicked out a second knife. DeKalb police reported that the knife thrown at the officers was found in the wall behind where Officer Bollow was standing.

Body camera footage from your ISP can be found here.

Tripicchio is accused with gun violence, attempted robbery, battery, property damage and assault with a weapon. Authorities say he remains under medical care.

DeKalb police say Illinois State Police conducted an independent investigation into the incident to ensure proper protocols were followed. According to the DeKalb Police Department, officers were found to be in compliance.

The department says both Chief Byrd and Officer Bollow will return to full duty. Previously, they were assigned to administrative duties.