Elkhart officials release body camera footage from deadly officer-involved shooting of teen

ELKHART COUNTY, Ind. -- Police body camera video from the February officer-involved shooting that left a teenager dead in Elkhart has been released to the public. 

On July 9, Elkhart County Prosecutor Vicki Becker determined the shooting to be justified, based on defense for the safety of the officers and others. 

"Our officers responded in accordance with their training during an encounter that unfolded in a matter or three seconds," said Elkhart Mayor Rod Roberson in Wednesday's press conference. 

They say 17-year-old Bryan Ramirez Gomez pulled a gun on officers at High Dive Park and shot at them first, before officers returned fire and killed him. 

The release of the bodycam footage is the first chance for the public to see for themselves crucial evidence from the investigation. 

Police say Gomez did not comply with the officer's commands and did not show his hands in the moments before shots rang out. 

Elkhart city and police officials showed a frame in the footage where the muzzle flash is visible from Gomez's firearm.  

Investigators recovered two handguns at the scene. 

They say one was found near Gomez, and another one was found in the vehicle.   

Photos of the guns can be seen in the released footage. 

Shell casings were also recovered that matched the gun they say Gomez fired.  

"We are very grateful that Officer Ragsdale and Officer Breneman, who have families, survived, and no additional lives were lost," said Mayor Roberson. 

Mayor Roberson said he wanted to release the body cam footage to the public so people can see what happened for themselves and hopefully lead to closure for the community and family of Gomez.  

"No matter the circumstances that led up to that moment, an Elkhart family is now grieving the permanent loss of their son, brother, and grandson," Mayor Roberson said. "We acknowledge their pain, and we extend our condolences to the family."  

Both officers involved have since returned to work.  

On July 10, a family member of the victim posted on social media that after seeing the body cam footage themselves, the family would be taking legal action.  

The city and police department say they have not received or been notified of a lawsuit.