Jagtar Singh Kang (photo: appeal-democrat.com)

As previously mentioned on this blog, 72-year-0ld Jagtar Singh Kang was shot and killed by police in Yuba City, California, after driving his car at individuals in his neighborhood who were celebrating July 4th with fireworks.

The Sutter County District Attorney in California has now completed his investigation of the shooting and has cleared the officer involved of any wrongdoing:

Deputy Zachary Berg shot Jagtar Singh Kang during a “course of bizarre and dangerous behavior” by Kang, including driving his car at neighbors and at the deputy, Adams said.

Kang had long feuded with neighbors over fireworks and other matters. One person said Kang had been “harassed” for years by young neighbors.

Kang had a blood alcohol level of .22 percent, almost three times the legal limit for driving, when he was shot, according to Adams’ report.

Given Jagtar Singh’s age and the preliminary details that had come out, there was some concern that the level of force used against him was unjustified, and I had come across suggestions that there was a race/bias motive involved. However, based on this report, it seems that the deputy’s actions were unfortunately justified. There are no more appropriate words to summarize this tragedy that those spoken by the District Attorney, Carl V. Adams:

“This is a horribly sad situation for everyone involved. It is a senseless death in the midst of what should have been a happy celebration for everyone,” Adams said.