Louisville, Ky. — Authorities in Louisville have released the identities of two officers involved in a fatal shooting that occurred on November 22 in the Southside neighborhood. Officers Patrick Norton and Richard Waller of the Louisville Metro Police Department responded to a reported armed robbery along East Southland Boulevard just before 10 p.m.
Upon arrival, police received a description of the suspect and located an individual matching that description nearby. Deputy Chief Ryan Bates stated that when approached by the officers, the man fled while brandishing a handgun. In response, Officers Norton and Waller discharged their firearms, striking the suspect, who was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel.
Bates noted that no injuries were reported among bystanders or officers during the incident. The suspect’s weapon was recovered at the location of the shooting. As per departmental protocol, the Public Integrity Unit will investigate the shooting, with body camera footage expected to be released within ten days.
Officer Waller has a commendable record, boasting 23 commendation letters with no prior disciplinary actions. However, Officer Norton’s history with the department is more complicated. His involvement in past shootings has led to scrutiny regarding his conduct and decision-making in high-pressure situations.
In November 2019, while responding to an active shooter alert at a nearby Kroger, Norton shot a suspect after claiming the individual directed gunfire at him. An investigation concluded the use of deadly force was justified. More recently, in June 2020, he fired at a man in mental distress, ultimately apprehending him without fatal consequences.
Over the past eight years, Norton has faced numerous complaints, resulting in at least 18 sustained violations across various incidents. His past has drawn significant attention, particularly when he was recommended for termination in 2019 after deactivating his body camera during an altercation that led to a suspect requiring medical attention. Although initially facing dismissal, he received a 20-day suspension instead.
Throughout his career, documents reveal instances of criticism for unprofessional behavior, including making derogatory comments at crime scenes and mishandling interactions with witnesses and suspects. Despite this checkered past, Norton also holds 46 commendations for exemplary police work, including receiving a Medal of Valor in 2022.
The investigation into the recent shooting is ongoing, and the community awaits the release of video evidence that may provide further insights into the incident. As law enforcement faces heightened scrutiny nationally, the findings of this case could have significant implications for police practices and policy in the city.