While many poor decisions led up to this man’s unfortunate death, the one that really matters, the proximate cause, was his choice to carry his gun the way he did, which led to it being dropped on the ground.

The gun was not visible in the early part of the video. It does not appear to have been open carried. At the point where the cops arrive and actually physically interact with the CCW, the gun is visible in the video as if sticking out of or coming out of his pocket. No one is trying to grab it or get it away from him. It appears to be irresponsibly unsecured.

If that gun was properly secured and concealed, not just dropped in his pocket, all his other mistakes leading up to this point in the video would not likely have caused his death. Not having the training and/or presence of mind to not pick up the gun when officers were present was a secondary mistake. Not hearing or understanding the officers’ commands may be understandable on his part for a variety of reasons, none of which matter to the safety of the crowd and the officers.

This was unfortunate, but preventable, and not by the cops. Carrying concealed puts one at a higher degree of accountability for decisions and actions. It is a risk we take because the possible perceived benefits (saving our lives) are greater, and the risks can be dealt with through training and clear headed thinking (not drinking, MYOB). Just carrying a gun does not automatically bestow the skills necessary to avoid a situation like this or avoid responsibility for the aftermath.