A Las Vegas man’s call for help during a home invasion turned tragic when police shot and killed him, sparking an investigation.
At a Glance
- Brandon Durham, 43, was fatally shot by police after calling 911 during a home break-in.
- Officer Alexander Bookman reportedly fired six rounds, killing Durham.
- The incident is believed to be targeted, involving Durham’s ex-girlfriend Alejandra Boudreaux.
- Durham’s family is calling the shooting “unlawful murder.”
- This marks the 13th officer-involved shooting in LVMPD’s jurisdiction this year.
A 911 Call Ends in Tragedy
Las Vegas police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred when officers responded to a 911 call for help during a home invasion. Brandon Durham, a 43-year-old father, called authorities reporting a shooting outside his home and attempted to lock himself in a bathroom with his 15-year-old daughter. The situation quickly escalated, resulting in Durham’s death at the hands of a responding officer.
Three officers arrived at the scene, observing damage to vehicles and home windows. Body camera footage showed the officers entering the home, where they encountered Durham struggling with Alejandra Boudreaux, a suspect in the case. Officer Alexander Bookman, who has been with the department since 2021, is reported to have fired six rounds at Durham, resulting in his death from multiple gunshot wounds.
Investigation Underway
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) is now conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. Assistant Sheriff Dori Koren acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating, “The loss of life in any type of incident like this is always tragic, and it’s something we take very seriously.”
The officer’s use of force is under review, considering the “objective reasonableness” standard from the Supreme Court’s Graham v. Connor decision. This standard takes into account the fact that officers often have to make split-second decisions in tense, uncertain, and rapidly evolving situations.
Family Outrage and Controversy
Durham’s family has expressed anger and disbelief at the police department’s actions. His daughter, Isabella, voiced her frustration, stating that she is “disgusted” that the Metropolitan Police will allow her to live fatherless for the rest of her life. The family viewed the body-worn camera footage and claimed Durham was at least eight feet away from the intruder when he was shot.
The family is calling the incident “unlawful murder,” raising questions about the appropriateness of the police’s use of force in this situation.
Complex Circumstances
The investigation has revealed that the incident was not a random act of violence. Durham and Boudreaux knew each other and had been in a relationship. Boudreaux was arrested and faces multiple charges, including home invasion with a deadly weapon and child abuse. It is believed that she intended to provoke a police response.
Contrary to Durham’s initial 911 call about a shooting, no guns were found at the scene, only two knives. This discrepancy adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation and raises questions about the information available to the responding officers at the time of the incident.
Broader Implications
This tragic event marks the 13th officer-involved shooting in the LVMPD’s jurisdiction this year, highlighting ongoing concerns about police use of force and response protocols. As the investigation continues, it will likely spark discussions about police training, decision-making in high-stress situations, and the balance between officer safety and civilian protection.
The community mourns the loss of Brandon Durham, described as a realtor, chef, and dedicated father. A GoFundMe has been started for Durham’s family, emphasizing his role as a loving family man. As the investigation unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how the LVMPD addresses this incident and what measures, if any, will be taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Sources
- Family outraged after Las Vegas police shoot, kill man during home invasion
- Cop Shoots and Kills Dad Who Called 911 for Help, Instead of Home Invader: ‘Fatherless for the Rest of My Life’
- Las Vegas man who called 911 for help in break-in was fatally shot by officer
- Las Vegas police kill victim of home invasion who called 911 for help