DA: Shooting of Army reservist who attacked deputies was justified

District Attorney Jeff Marsigli has decided that a Wilson County deputy was justified when he shot and killed an Army reservist who was attacking law enforcement officers called to his home in September 2023.

Authorities and the family of Lamoris Speight Jr. agree he was experiencing a mental health crisis when he choked a deputy and tried to take his weapon.

Deputy Bruce White shot and killed Speight Jr. to stop the attack outside a home on Main Street in Saratoga.

According to the incident report from the sheriff's office, "Speight was given several commands to let go of the deputy and to release the deputy's weapon. At the point where the deputy was about to lose consciousness, a deputy on the scene discharged his firearm striking Mr. Speight."

Speight's family members told WRAL News that they feel deputies should have used other methods to de-escalate the situation before shooting him.

Get Help: County-by-county guide to mental health and crisis resources in NC

In the wake of tragic and traumatic events, feelings like stress, anxiety, grief and depression are natural. Here is a list of crisis counseling and county-by-county resources in North Carolina, as well as nationally. These resources are available for you -- just call.