Tragic Death of Niani Finlayson During Police Response to 911 Call in Lancaster

Lancaster, CA — A tragic incident occurred in Lancaster, Los Angeles County, where 27-year-old Niani Finlayson was fatally shot by police on Tuesday night, December 4, 2023. The police were responding to a 911 call made by Finlayson, who sought help for a domestic dispute involving her boyfriend and her 9-year-old daughter.

According to initial reports, Finlayson was in distress when officers arrived at her apartment. Witnesses state that she was screaming as she opened the door, holding a kitchen knife and her daughter, while alleging that her boyfriend had harmed the child. Officer Ty Shelton, who was the second officer to enter the residence, discharged his firearm, striking Finlayson four (4) times within 3 seconds of entering the home.

Despite medical assistance, Finlayson succumbed to her injuries. The child was unharmed.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has launched an investigation into the shooting. Officer Shelton has been removed from the field pending an investigation.

Friends and family of Niani Finlayson have expressed their grief and shock over the incident, demanding a thorough investigation and justice for her untimely death. Community activists are also calling for a review of police response protocols in domestic violence situations to prevent such tragedies in the future.

This story is developing, and further details will be provided as they become available.

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