CPD Releases Names Of 5 Officers Who Fired At Shooter At Military Center On July 16

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Attorney’s Office, and the Chattanooga Police Department have cleared for release the names of the five officers who discharged their firearms, killing Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez on July 16.

Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke said, “On July 16, Chattanooga’s character was tested, beginning with our police officers. When it would have been reasonable to delay, or to turn away, our officers bravely rushed toward danger.

These officers operated as they had been trained, ensuring the incident was over as quickly as possible. Their brave actions that day, and the compassion and kindness shown by our community on the days and weeks to follow, showed the nation - and the world - our character.”

On Monday, with the permission of the officers, the Chattanooga Police Department is officially releasing the names of these five law enforcement personnel.

• Officer Sean O’Brien

• Officer Grover Wilson

• Officer Jeff Lancaster

• Officer Kevin Flanagan

• Officer Lucas Timmons

Additionally, per the policy of the Chattanooga Police Department, an administrative review of this incident was conducted. The Chattanooga Police Department has completed this administrative review of the officer involved shooting of Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez on July 16.

“The officers who fired their weapons on this tragic day did so in heroic defense of themselves and others,”  said Chief of Police Fred Fletcher. “There is no evidence that this use of force was anything other than justified. I am proud of their actions and humbled by the risks they faced.”

The men appeared at a press conference on Monday afternoon.

Officer O'Brien said two officers assisted wounded officer Dennis Pedigo to safety, then several other officers got him to an ambulance on Amnicola Highway. He said officers helping the wounded officer were under fire from the shooter.