Body cam footage reveals officer’s swift response to shots fired in Tacoma

A riveting body cam video, released in September 2022, provides a firsthand look at the intense reality police officers may encounter during an active shooter situation. The incident, which transpired in Tacoma, Washington, in August 2022, showcased the remarkable marksmanship of Officer Christopher Munn.

The footage unfolds as Officer Munn, responding to reports of shots being fired, sits in his patrol car. With a sense of urgency, he places his coffee on the dashboard, retrieves an assault rifle from the trunk, and moves to the back of the vehicle. The distant sound of gunfire permeates the air.

Finally, Munn, with calm determination, takes aim and fires a single shot. He immediately reports, “Shots fired. Suspect’s down.” The officer’s precise shot reached a staggering distance of 183 yards, approximately 167 meters, striking the suspect identified as 40-year-old Peter Tyler Collins.

Collins had engaged in a gunfight with officers, responding to a report of his assault on his nephew in South Tacoma. Ring doorbell camera footage reveals Collins retreating into his home, leading to a tense standoff. Despite officers’ commands and warnings, Collins was ultimately killed during the 16-minute exchange.

Forensic findings indicated that Collins suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the chest, with investigators determining that he had been shot twice, one of the wounds being self-inflicted. Neighbors, like Kimberley Lott, sought refuge during the intense exchange, highlighting the profound impact of gun violence on communities.

The incident sheds light on the challenges law enforcement faces in addressing gun-related incidents. As of November 14, 2023, the US has witnessed 602 mass shootings, defined as incidents with four or more individuals killed or injured, excluding the shooter. Firearms, now surpassing car accidents, pose a significant threat, with more than 35,000 gun-related deaths in the US in 2023, averaging 118 daily.

Christopher Munn’s exceptional marksmanship serves as a testament to the split-second decisions officers make in high-pressure situations, underscoring the need for ongoing efforts to address gun violence and ensure public safety.