A state trooper was justified in using deadly force against an Adams County man who stabbed and chased his own brother with a knife, the district attorney said Tuesday.

District Attorney Brian Sinnett said the trooper’s actions certainly saved Jesse Drayer from either death or further serious injury. He said the trooper used force on Michael Drayer only when it was absolutely necessary to protect Jesse Drayer’s life.

Michael Drayer, 34, died at a hospital after he was shot at the intersection of Carlisle Road and Aspers-Bendersville Road in Menallen Township on Feb. 13.

Police said Michael Drayer stabbed his 40-year-old brother with a kitchen knife then chased Jesse Drayer from his home on foot. Jesse Drayer flagged down a passerby in a pickup truck and jumped into the bed of the pickup to get away from his brother.

When troopers arrived on the scene a short time later, Jesse Drayer sought refuge in the police cruiser. The troopers ordered Michael Drayer to surrender but he ignored their commands to drop the knife and tried to attack his brother in the cruiser, police said.

The trooper then fired three shots, striking Michael Drayer.

Jesse Drayer was treated for knife wounds to his arms. He said his brother suffered from paranoia and schizophrenia and had a breakdown because he was out of medication.

The trooper was not injured.