SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — A Salt Lake City man was taken into custody over the weekend after allegedly firing his gun to get the attention of an SLCPD police officer.
Nichan Meguerditchian, 45, was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on third-degree felony charges of discharge of a firearm and use of a firearm by a restricted person.
The officer was reportedly driving in the area of 700 East near Wilmington Avenue on Saturday, Aug. 4 around midnight when he first spotted Meguerditchian. The officer reportedly noticed Meguerditchian had something in his hand but continued on. That is when he heard reportedly heard a gunshot.
“When the officer turned around, he saw the man running toward him,” the Salt Lake City Police Department said in a press release.
Meguerditchian was safely taken into custody by the officer. During the investigation, he allegedly admitted to firing his gun in an attempt to get the officer’s attention. According to court documents, the officer found a single gun shell casing nearby.
“I can’t emphasize the danger involved in a shooting off a gun to attract the attention of a police officer,” said SLCPD Chief Mike Brown. “This incident certainly involved a range of emotions that included fear, shock, and the urge to quickly and safely regain control of the situation. I want to recognize the officer involved for his fast response in handling this situation safely and ensuring no one was hurt.”
According to court records, Meguerditchian has been ordered to be held without bail, pending a pretrial hearing.
Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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