Pullman police officer fires at man with knife

PULLMAN — A Washington State University police officer is on administrative leave after firing his gun at a suspect March 27.

Officials have yet to identify the officer involved.

Meanwhile, John Bazan, 20, of Pullman, is being held in the Whitman County Jail on charges of obstructing a law enforcement officer, intimidating a public servant and resisting arrest.

The leave and arrest follow an 11:22 a.m. Wednesday, March 27, report of a man with a knife.

Police arriving on scene said Bazan had his hands in his sweatshirt pockets and began to move towards the officers, records show. When he continued, police used a Taser on him, it was ineffective.

An officer then fired a shot and the Taser was used again, this time allowing Bazan to be taken into custody, record show. Bazan was not struck by the bullet, but was transported to Pullman Regional Hospital for evaluation.

In accordance with standard police procedures, the officer was placed on administrative leave while an independent investigation is conducted.