Ogden, Utah – Disturbing body camera footage has been released, documenting a harrowing shootout in Ogden, Utah that left a 36-year-old man dead and a police officer injured. The incident unfolded on June 6th, when Ogden police responded to a frantic 9-1-1 call.
Domestic Dispute Escalates into Violence
The caller, identified as Brian Simonton’s ex-wife, pleaded for police assistance in removing him from her apartment complex. She informed dispatch that Simonton was violating a protective order and was known to carry weapons, specifically a gun.
“He’s been known to like… what, knives, guns, uh, guns,” the distressed woman told the dispatcher, her voice trembling with fear.
She expressed concern for her safety and the safety of others, revealing that Simonton had made suicidal threats in the past.
A second 9-1-1 call corroborated the woman’s account, with another individual at the apartment complex reporting that Simonton was armed, refusing to leave, and threatening residents.
Officer’s Arrival Ignites Chaos
Bodycam footage from the first responding officer paints a chilling picture of the escalating situation. As the officer arrived at the scene, he immediately recognized the gravity of the situation, shouting, “Step it up! He just pulled a gun! All units, he’s got a gun in his right hand! He’s a 7-4! Drop the weapon now!”
Ignoring the officer’s commands, Simonton advanced, prompting the officer to repeatedly order him to drop his weapon. Backup arrived quickly, and the officers attempted to strategically position themselves around the complex while the first officer continued to engage with Simonton, demanding his surrender.
Gunfire Erupts, Officer Down
Within moments, chaos erupted as Simonton opened fire on the officers.
“Drop the firearm now!” an officer shouted as shots rang out.
Police officers approach an apartment complex
The officers, caught in the crossfire, scrambled for cover while returning fire. One officer, caught in the line of fire, cried out, “Oh 7-4! I’m hit! 7-4! I’m hit!”
The bodycam footage from multiple officers captures the frantic moments as they worked to secure the area and provide aid to their wounded colleague.
Tragedy Strikes, Investigation Launched
Despite the chaos, officers continued to engage Simonton, and ultimately, he was fatally wounded. Medical personnel pronounced him dead at the scene. A .45 Long Colt revolver was recovered near his body, and security footage confirmed that he had reloaded his weapon during the exchange.
The injured officer was rushed to a local hospital, where he underwent surgery and has since been released, on the road to recovery.
Eight officers discharged their firearms during the incident, which remains under investigation by the Weber County Attorney’s Office. The investigation will determine if the officers’ use of deadly force was justified.
This tragic event underscores the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day and the complexities of dealing with individuals in mental health crises.
