LAYTONSVILLE, MARYLAND, USA – FEBRUARY 6, 2021 Tragic incident involved 52-year-old Kevin Costlow, who caused several traffic collisions and was acting very erratically and unpredictably. The police were called out for the purpose of resolving the situation.
By the time Deputy Sheriff Frank Pruitt arrived at the scene, the situation was spiraling out of control. Costlow attacked the deputy with a wooden stick, striking him several times. In response, Pruitt shot Costlow with his service weapon, to which Costlow succumbed.
The entire incident was investigated by the Howard County State’s Attorney’s Office to determine whether the deputy was justified. As of now, investigators have determined Frank Pruitt acted within the law, and his actions were appropriate given the circumstances. He would not be charged over the shooting.
The incident incensed residents of Laytonsville and social media platforms, with some vowing to stand in support of the deputy they feel defended his life, and others calling for greater police transparency and officer training that would provide the same outcome in a non-deadly manner.
A video of the incident, which is available, shows it to be quick and highly stressful. The aggressive actions by Costlow left the deputy sheriff with no choice but to use deadly force. This case reminds one of complex decisions law enforcement officers have to make in split-second moments.
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