Father of Mentally Ill Man Killed by TX Officer Expresses Sympathy for Police
Rob Davis said his son had an Airsoft gun. "It looks like a gun," Davis said. "You would never be able to tell the difference.”
Footage from a Fort Worth officer's body camera shows Mitchell Davis pointing what appears to be a handgun. It was an airsoft replica. Davis' father says he understands why the officer fired. (Photo: WFAA Screen Shot)
Just one day after his son, Mitchell Davis, was shot and killed by a Fort Worth police officer, Rob Davis said Wednesday he wants people to know about his son and expressed sympathy for the officers involved.
Davis said his 29-year-old son was a brother to his five siblings, an uncle and a friend to many. He also struggled with mental illness.
“We have worked relentlessly with him, with medical professionals and counselors. Our family has rallied around him," Davis said. "In the end, it was becoming overwhelming, and he was terrified he was going to hurt someone."
On Tuesday, Davis said Mitchell took his dog for a walk. While on that walk, he called 911. He told the dispatcher he had a "Glock", he was going to hurt someone and he felt like he was possessed.
Three officers responded.
In partial body camera footage that was released, Davis can be seen reaching into his pocket and pulling out what appears to be a gun and pointing it at officers, WFAA reports.
Rob Davis said his son had an Airsoft gun. "It looks like a gun," Davis said. "You would never be able to tell the difference.”
“Our family is heartbroken for the officers," Davis said. "Our heart goes out because we have the deepest admiration and respect and appreciation for what law enforcement does.”
More Patrol
5 Things to Know When Buying Backup Lights for Patrol Use
What is the value of a backup light, and what do you need to consider when selecting one? These smaller lights are invaluable as a secondary or special-purpose light and can be easily carried in a pocket or clipped to MOLLE gear, a key chain, shirt, or a vest.
Read More →
363 Fallen Officers Honored During National Police Week
In case you missed NELOMF’s annual Candlelight Vigil, here are all 363 names of the fallen officers whose names were added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial this year.
Read More →
NYPD Officers Who Responded Quickly During IED Incident Recognized as NLEOMF Officers of the Month
Chief Aaron Edwards and Sgt. Luis Navarro were recognized by NLEOMF as Officers of the Month for their response during an IED incident and their actions that helped prevent harm to the public.
Read More →
National Police Survey Reveals How Americans View Policing Today
A new national survey offers a comprehensive look at how Americans view policing. The study uncovers public sentiment toward local vs. federal police, communications, crisis response, the use of AI in policing, and more.
Read More →
Streamlight TLR-7 X Selected as Standard Issue Pistol Light by Canadian Federal Police
The Canadian Federal Police will be adding a new duty pistol system, which will include Streamlight’s TLR-7 X and a Glock 45 MOS 7 pistol with a red dot sight.
Read More →
Fallen Law Enforcement Officers from Across the Country to be Honored During 38th Annual Candlelight Vigil on May 13th in Washington, D.C.
The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) will honor 363 fallen officers who have died in the line of duty as their names are added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial during the annual Candlelight Vigil on May 13.
Read More →
What Should Be in Your IFAK?
What should every officer include in an IFAK? Sydney Vail, M.D., a veteran trauma surgeon and former SWAT surgeon, explains which components are needed and which are not, and stresses training.
Read More →
Olight Releases 2 New Baton Variants & the ArkPro Ultra Onyx Black
Olight has added two new lights to the Baton Series, the Baton 4 and the Baton Ultra. One new Baton features up to 1,600 lumens on turbo, and the other 1,800.
Read More →
Team Wendy Reveals New RECON Tactical Bump Helmet
Team Wendy’s new RECON Tactical bump helmet is configurable by color, retention, and accessories for rescue, tactical, and military mission needs. It features Zorbium foam pads, shell vents, and lattice cooling pads that balance impact absorption, airflow, and long-wear support.
Read More →
Garmont Tactical Introduces the T8 Specter LE Zip for LE Professionals
Garmont Tactical has a new 8-inch duty boot with a side zipper, the T8 Specter LE Zip. The boot is available now and features ankle support in a standard duty profile with polishable leather.
Read More →