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Phoenix Police ID man shot outside precinct

Posted at 9:51 AM, Dec 27, 2015
and last updated 2015-12-27 20:42:21-05

Phoenix Police have identified a man who was shot and killed after threatening officers and damaging police property Saturday afternoon.

Lonnie Niesen, 41, was caught throwing objects at a Phoenix officer's vehicle in the area of 39th Avenue and Cactus late Saturday morning outside of the nearby police precinct.

The suspect gathered more rocks or bricks to throw as more officers were contacted for assistance.

One of the objects thrown shattered the front glass of the precinct. 

According to police, Niesen refused to obey police orders and instead turned and suddenly threw something at one of the officers, striking him in the hand.

Police say at that time one of the officers fired a shot toward him. 

Officers began life-saving efforts after he was hit, but Niesen died at the hospital.

The officer who was hit by the object was treated for minor injuries at the scene.

Family told officers that Niesen had stolen alcohol and a gun on Friday and was impaired Saturday. He also reportedly made suicidal statements to his family.

The incident is still under investigation.