York County police shooting ruled justified

(Harrisburg) — Investigators have determined a York County police officer was justified in using deadly force against a suspect in police custody this summer. 

York County District Attorney Dave Sunday announced the result of the Pennsylvania State Police investigation in a press release Monday. 

According to the release, a West Manchester Township police officer was investigating a theft of an area Walmart on August 23rd and identified Logan James Montgomery and his wife as suspects. 

Prosecutors said the officer found the two staying at a Motel 6 in Manchester Township. The officer took Montgomery into custody with the assistance of an officer from Northern York County Regional Police. 

Investigators said when the West Manchester Township officer attempted to search Montgomery’s back pockets, Montgomery aggressively pulled away and twisted his body to the left of the officer. They said while the officer was attempting to regain control, Montgomery moved his hands to his right side and fired a gun. The officer pushed Montgomery away, drew his duty weapon and fired at Montgomery.

The officer told investigators he knew Montgomery was shooting at him and he feared for his life.

“The witness statements and physical evidence support a clear conclusion that after being shot at, this officer’s fear of death or serious bodily injury was certainly justified,” said Sunday. “The thorough investigation conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police clearly indicate that the facts and circumstances of this incident support the use of deadly force and therefore do not warrant any criminal charges against the officer involved.”

Montgomery was pronounced dead at 9:24 p.m. August 25. An autopsy by Forensic Pathology Associates determined he died as a result of one gunshot wound.