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Berrien Cty. Sheriff's deputies shoot, kill man near Niles who charged them with knife, police say

Berrien County Sheriff

Berrien County Sheriff’s Department officials said two deputies shot and killed a man who charged them with a knife Thursday night.

In a news release, the department said officers were dispatched to a mobile home park on South 13th street near Niles at about 10:45 p.m. on Sept. 30 because of reports of a man with a knife.

When they arrived at the scene, police said the officers tried to deescalate the situation verbally, and then tried using less lethal rounds to get the suspect to drop the knife.

Police said the suspect eventually charged the deputies and was shot. First aid was administered, but he died at the scene.

The Michigan State police are investigating, and two sheriff’s deputies have been placed on paid administrative leave while the investigation is going on.

The department said the names of the two deputies, as well as the name of the deceased man, will not be released at this time.

Contact Kent at kfulmer@wvpe.org.

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Kent Fulmer joined WVPE in August of 2020 to take on one of the station's most high profile roles as the local host of Morning Edition. Kent comes to WVPE with more than 20 years experience in radio in the Michiana area. During his career, Kent has had a variety of roles including DJ, reporter and newscaster, as well as several behind-the-scenes positions. Kent and his wife, Donna, are celebrating their 32nd wedding anniversary in 2020 and have lived in Elkhart County for almost 20 years. They have two adult daughters, Sarah and Rebecca. When not working, Kent is active as a musician, playing trumpet and flugelhorn. He has performed with a number of area bands. Currently he performs with the Phat Tuesday Dixieland Band and Jazz Assemblage, as well as his church's praise band. As a member of Jazz Assemblage, Kent has appeared at the Elkhart Jazz Festival several times. He also volunteers with Bugles Across America.