Trooper Involved in Deadly Shooting Last November Cleared of Wrongdoing

Meridian (670 KBOI News) – The Idaho State Trooper who shot an killed a man in Meridian last November is cleared of any wrongdoing.

The Idaho Statesman is reporting the Critical Incident Task Force investigation, led by the Boise Police, concluded Trooper Justin Ward did nothing wrong when he shot and killed Christopher Williams after he drove away from a traffic stop.

Ward chased Williams to a dead end street, and a fight ensued. When Williams tried to grab Ward’s sidearm, Ward shot him. He then tried to give him life-saving first aid, but Williams died.

An autopsy found both amphetamines and methamphetamine in his system.

Twin Falls County Prosecutor Grant Loebs, who reviewed the case, wrote the Ward’s actions were necessary to protect himself, and the community.

— Jay Howell, 670 KBOI