Police officers shot and killed a former college football star. But a police bullet may have also killed his 3-year-old son.
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Police Previously Said the College Football Star Shot His Son
As the New York Post reports, Las Vegas police shot 28-year-old Quinton Baker after he attacked his girlfriend. Baker, a former running back for Portland State and Western Kentucky universities, had come out to her as gay.
Officers had claimed that Baker shot his own son dead. They said the former college football player used him as a human shield as he tried to elude gunfire. However, officials have now acknowledged they are unable to determine whether officers or Baker fired the shot that killed his son.
Police were called to Baker's apartment in February. Officers received reports that he attacked Raneka Pate, the mother of Baker's son, and another woman. Baker had just revealed his sexuality, according to the report.
Baker, a Kentucky native, escaped the apartment with his son in his arms. Police said he pointed a gun at the toddler's chest.
Bodycam Footage Was Released Last Week
Bodycam footage released last week showed Baker approaching officers. They ordered the former college football player to drop his weapon, and he shouted, "Imma shoot myself!"
Officers said Baker was able to fire four shots between the time police opened fire on him and when he fell to the ground.
Pate has disputed the police's previous account of what happened. Meanwhile, outlets say she is considering a wrongful-death suit.
Baker was ranked a three-star prospect in 2016. He was also considered the No. 21-ranked all-purpose running back in the United States by 247Sports and named to the Conference USA All-Freshman team the first year he played.
The report comes months after Gavin Yates-Lyons, a freshman defensive back for Ball State, was shot in a parking garage on May 24.
Yates-Lyons was caught in a crossfire in the garage adjacent to off-campus apartments for Florida State University students.
"We extend sincere condolences to his family, friends, coaches, teammates and all who held him close. May you find comfort and strength during this challenging moment," the school wrote on social media.
