Officials Praise Russell as Family of Deceased Questions Outcome

Following the incident, Sheriff Mike Scott commended Russell’s actions in a public statement, calling him a hero for preventing what could have been a deadly outcome for Deputy Bardes. Scott also noted that the case stood as a reminder that “black lives matter, blue lives matter, and indeed all life matters.”

The State Attorney’s Office later concluded that Russell’s actions were legally justified, ruling that he reasonably believed deadly force was necessary to prevent “imminent death or great bodily harm” to the deputy.

However, not all agreed with the ruling. Louis Strother, the brother of the deceased, questioned the narrative. “They are calling him a good Samaritan?” he asked. “Was my brother armed?”

The case has since closed, with prosecutors confirming no further legal action will be taken. Meanwhile, the event continues to spark debate about citizen intervention, use of force, and justice in high-stakes confrontations.