PHOENIX (CBS5) -
Phoenix police officers shot and killed a man who pointed an assault-style rifle at a woman and then aimed it at officers, investigators said.
The victim is identified as 49-year-old Samuel Barnes.
Officers were trying to investigate a report of domestic violence in the area of 300 W. Wagoner at about 5:15 p.m. Saturday.
Two officers walked up to the woman who was outside a home when Barnes, her husband, appeared at the front door, police said.
Barnes, who was carrying an assault-style rifle, pointed it at his wife, who had her back toward him, said Phoenix police spokesman Sgt. Tommy Thompson.
Officers ordered the man to drop his weapon, but he did not comply, Thompson said. Fearing he was about to shoot his wife, both officers fired at Barnes, Thompson said.
He then pointed the gun at one of the officers, who fired again, Thompson said. He was transported to a hospital, where he died from his injuries. The officers were not injured.
"When we're involved in incidents like this, there are literally a matter of seconds, and it's a split second decision that we have to make," said Thompson.
The 48-year-old female officer involved in the shooting is 16-year veteran of the department.
The 48-year-old male officer who fired is also a 16-year Phoenix police veteran.
The officers will be placed on administrative leave, Thompson said.
Copyright 2012 CBS 5 (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.
3300 W. Wagoner
