Connecticut police fatally shoot man after years of intervention

On a Thursday afternoon in West Haven, Connecticut, police officers fatally shot a 36-year-old man during an investigation by a violent crime task force. The man, who had a history of criminal involvement, reportedly displayed a firearm, prompting the officers to open fire. The identities of the deceased and the officers involved have not been disclosed. New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson expressed his familiarity with the man, recalling past interactions during a violence prevention initiative called Project Longevity, aimed at steering individuals away from crime. The police chief emphasized the tragic nature of the incident, noting that the officers involved were deeply affected by the shooting. Following standard procedures, the officers were placed on administrative leave, while other personnel present at the scene were sent home for mental health support. The community's response has been one of shock and sorrow, with New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker offering condolences to the man's family at the hospital. The state inspector general has initiated an investigation into the shooting, with expectations of releasing further details and video footage in the coming days. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing violent crime and the complexities of community policing efforts. As the investigation unfolds, it raises questions about the effectiveness of intervention programs like Project Longevity and the broader implications for public safety and police-community relations in New Haven and beyond.