By JAMES MITCHELL
Sunday Times Newspapers
TRENTON — State Police are investigating a shooting incident in which a city officer fired at and struck an 18-year-old man Thursday afternoon. The man, reportedly identified as Trenton High School senior Kyle Baker, died Friday morning from his injuries.
Director of Police and Fire James Nardone said that about 4:30 p.m. Thursday officers responded to calls of a public disturbance in the 28000 block of Longmeadow. Baker appeared “highly agitated and possibly under the influence of drugs,” Nardone said.
Baker had attacked responding officers with an edged weapon, Nardone said, likely a lawn mower blade. A police officer was injured when the blade struck his hand.
Police fired a stun gun Baker, which failed to stop the attack.
“They then fired one round, striking the suspect,” Nardone said.
Baker was taken to a nearby hospital, and died early Friday.
The officer was treated for his injuries and is recovering, Nardone said. State Police detectives are investigating the incident and shooting.
Baker had been set to graduate this week. Trenton High School remained open Friday, school officials said, and grief counseling was made available to students and parents.
Trenton Schools Supt. Rodney Wakeham was not available for comment.
(James Mitchell can be reached at [email protected].)