&gt; The scenario outlined did not involve an actual gun that could harm anyone.<p>It did not involve an actual gun in that particular instance. I would like you to explain exactly how the police may identify whether the object that appears to be a weapon is an actual weapon other than waiting for the suspect to fire first.<p>Again, we should just hope that innocent bystanders are not hit by that first shot at police as they hide behind their defensive positions and superior equipment? Police officers and innocent bystanders don&#x27;t always fare too well when the police are obligated to follow stupid rules of engagement.<p>&gt; Some people say the suspect should be shot in all four scenarios (after all, he might shoot!). I disagree.<p>See, that&#x27;s where I agree with you. Because none of the scenarios in your list is a reason for police officers to fire as you list them. But tack on the end of each item that the suspect acted in a threatening manner with an object that appeared to be a weapon then the police officer may choose to fire their weapon. To be fair, if the suspect tried to run down other people or cops during the chase to show that he was a threat then just getting out of the car with an object that appeared to be a weapon will get him shot. It&#x27;s all about context.