MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Memphis Police Director Toney Armstrong says guns are too available in the city.
Armstrong spoke Tuesday about a fatal police shooting early Sunday that killed 61-year-old Horace Whiting. Police responded to a call about a man shooting a shotgun on a city street. When officers confronted Whiting and told him to put down the gun, he fired again and police shot him.
The Commercial Appeal reported Armstrong called the shooting "unfortunate" and said not everyone who can obtain a firearm should have one.
Friends and family members have told reporters Whiting had mental health issues and had been drinking.
Armstrong said officers were forced to make a decision whether to shoot in a matter of seconds.
Two officers are on paid leave while the shooting is investigated.