Two internal review panels have absolved a Macomb police lieutenant in last year’s fatal shooting of two people, including a four-year old boy.
The shooting happened after police responded to a domestic violence call in the 900 block of North Charles Street at around 10 p.m. on March 16.
They heard screaming inside an apartment, kicked down the door, and found Keianna Miller, 36, suffering from numerous stab wounds.
They got her out of the apartment as she told them her son was still inside.
The attacker, Anthony George, 57, was at the end of a hallway, about 20 feet away. He reached into a bedroom and grabbed the boy, Terrell Miller.
George was holding knives to the boy’s throat and stomach when Lt. Nick Goc fired one shot, which struck and killed both of them.
The police department’s internal affairs board determined there was no breach of policy.
Chief Jeff Hamer said the deadly force review board, comprised of supervisors and officers alike, also issued its finding.
“The deadly force review board found that as to Anthony George, the force was reasonable and necessary, and there were no policy or training recommendations,” Hamer said.
“Now as to Terrell Miller, that was found to be accidental. I don’t think in any way, shape, or form anyone felt that the officer’s intent to go in there and hurt young Miller.”
Hamer said George’s actions placed Miller in harm’s way.
Illinois State Police also investigated the case and reviewed the body cam footage. Based on ISP’s findings, the Illinois Appellate Prosecutor’s Office chose not to file charges.
McDonough County State’s Attorney Matt Kwacala also said there was no basis for prosecution.
Hamer said Goc has been back on duty for about a week, after being on administrative leave for nearly 10 months. Hamer said Goc is slowly being worked back into his administrative and patrol responsibilities.
Hamer does not foresee changes to policy or training other than to possibly do more critical response training.
“This is a tragic case,” he said.
Hamer urged anyone in a domestic violence situation to seek support and contact WIRC’s Victim Services at (309) 837-5555.
“Early intervention is the best intervention,” he said.
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