Paul Ree Gaston, a 37-year-old man from Cincinnati, OH, died on February 17, 2016, following a police-involved shooting. The incident occurred in the Cincinnati suburb of Cheviot, where Gaston was involved in a car crash and subsequently encountered police officers. According to reports, Gaston appeared to be under the influence and was seen driving erratically before crashing his pickup into a utility pole.
After the crash, he allegedly dropped a gun, picked it up, and fled the scene.
When police officers arrived, they commanded Gaston to get on the ground. Initially, he complied by getting on his knees with his hands behind his head. However, as officers continued to give commands, Gaston reached for a weapon in his waistband, which turned out to be a pellet gun designed to look like a real pistol. Three officers, who were directly facing Gaston, fired nine rounds, striking him multiple times. The officers involved in the shooting were identified as Scott McManis, Zachary Sterbling, and Eric Kohler.
The Cincinnati police Criminal Investigations Section conducted an investigation into the shooting. The officers involved were placed on administrative leave during the investigation. Police Chief Eliot Isaac stated that the officers responded appropriately according to their training. Toxicology test results for Gaston were pending at the time, and the investigation included reviewing witness videos of the incident.
Gaston had been awaiting trial on multiple charges, including aggravated menacing, failure to comply with police, and driving while his license was suspended. He was free on bond at the time of the shooting. The incident raised questions about police use of force and the handling of individuals with mental health or substance abuse issues.
The shooting was captured on video by eyewitnesses, and the footage was released to the public. The videos showed Gaston initially complying with police commands before reaching for the pellet gun. The incident sparked discussions about police training and the need for de-escalation techniques in such situations.
In summary, Paul Ree Gaston's death was the result of a police-involved shooting that occurred after a car crash and a confrontation with officers. The investigation focused on the officers' actions and Gaston's behavior leading up to the shooting. The case highlighted issues related to police use of force and the treatment of individuals with potential substance abuse problems.
