Chief Porter: Use Of Force Justified Against An Armed Dyshan Best, Inspector General Investigation Will Make Final Determination

In a Friday news conference Police Chief Roderick Porter declared that the police officer who discharged his service revolver that killed a fleeing Dyshan Best on Monday was justified as Best appears to be brandishing a firearm in view of officer Yoon Heo during a chase on the East Side, according to a preliminary finding by Connecticut Inspector General Robert Devlin.

Porter cautioned that the final determination will be made by Devlin, protocol in police-involved shootings.

Devlin’s report said Best appeared to be holding a gun in his right hand as he ran down Kossuth Street into a driveway. At that point, Heo fired two shots as Best continued to run, striking Best, who later died from his injuries. A Highpoint Compact 9 mm handgun was found next to the spot where Best fell, Devlin said.

Police responded Monday to a call of a street fight that involved an armed man. When police responded they approached a vehicle with Best in the passenger seat holding a bottle of Remy.

Best, who had a police record, exited the vehicle and fled on foot leading to two officers in pursuit. Along the way Best ran out of his shoes and dropped the bottle of Remy, then flashed what appeared to be a gun in his right hand pointed with his back to Heo who then is seen on video firing shots.

Statement from State Rep. Chris Rosario:

“The loss of Dyshan Best is a tragedy, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. I also recognize the difficult, split-second decisions that law enforcement officers must make in high-pressure situations. Ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness in this investigation is essential for maintaining trust in our community.

This is a preliminary report, not the full report, and while it provides some insight into the events, critical gaps remain. The report includes body-worn camera footage of the pursuit and surveillance video from the Citgo Station, but it does not include footage of the post-incident response, such as the officers’ efforts to provide medical aid. Additionally, while the report states that a firearm was recovered near where Mr. Best fell, there is no video evidence documenting the actual recovery. These unanswered questions highlight the need for all available footage and evidence to be reviewed and released.

To ensure full transparency and accountability, I, along with the Leadership of the Legislative Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, will be requesting to meet with Inspector General Robert Devlin and his team to make sure all questions are answered, and the public receives a complete understanding of this case.

As this process moves forward, I urge everyone to remain peaceful and civil. I acknowledge the deep emotions this tragedy has caused, and we must allow the investigation to take its course while continuing to demand accountability, fairness, and justice. Let us stand together to ensure transparency and trust in our community.”