Phoenix police: Security guard shoots and kills man armed with knife, possibly in self defense

Police say a security guard shot and killed a man in Phoenix Thursday morning.

The incident occurred about 10 a.m. near Interstate 17 and Central Avenue, according to Phoenix Police Department spokesperson Sgt. Ann Justus. 

There, an armed security guard shot 37-year-old Shawn King, who was armed with a knife, Justus said. Police did not explain the events leading up to the shooting or say where the security guard was working. 

King was pronounced dead at the scene despite fire officials' attempts to save his life, according to Justus. 

Early evidence and witness statements indicate the guard may have been acting in self defense, Justus said. 

The security guard, who was not identified by police, remained at the scene when police arrived. 

An investigation into the shooting was ongoing.

Once complete, the case would be submitted to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office for review, Justus said. 

Reach the reporter at chelsea.curtis@arizonarepublic.com or follow her on Twitter @curtis_chels. 

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