Editor’s note: This video is from our coverage previewing this trial.
AUSTIN (KXAN) — The trial for APD Officer Daniel Sanchez, who faces a deadly conduct charge related to a 2022 deadly shooting in south Austin, began with opening statements Thursday morning.
Sanchez shot and killed 33-year-old Rajan Moonesinghe while responding to a 911 call about Moonesinghe walking around his house with a rifle.
In December of 2023, a grand jury indicted Sanchez on a deadly conduct charge in connection with the shooting.
Moonesinghe was a tech entrepreneur in Austin. His mother Ruth described him as “the best of all of us.”
What happened the night of the shooting?
APD said when officers arrived on South Third Street, they heard gunshots while still in their patrol vehicle.
“Both arriving officers then drove past the residence. The two officers exited their vehicles and sought cover while Mr. Moonesinghe, who was standing on the porch, continued firing a rifle,” APD said.
Officers gave commands to drop the gun, and Sanchez shot him right afterwards.
You can view police body camera video of that shooting here.
APD previously said Sanchez acted in accordance with his training and that the department “will continue to support” him.
Attorneys’ arguments
During opening statements, prosecutor Rob Drummond opened by saying Moonesinghe’s last words were “it wasn’t me,” and that he was never either under arrest or in the process of trying to harm anyone when Sanchez shot him.
Drummond also said Sanchez fired his first shot within one-tenth of a second of telling Moonesinghe to drop the gun. The State said after the first round of three shots were fired, Moonesinghe fell, stepped back from the rifle and put his hands up.
Sanchez’ attorney Brad Heilman opened by saying officers have a difficult job and are often faced with dangerous situations. Regarding this shooting, Heilman stated Sanchez perceived a deadly threat and acted in accordance with his training.
The Defense revealed an autopsy report showed Moonesinghe had cocaine in his system and his blood alcohol level was at .33.
“That’s a dangerous situation,” he said.
KXAN will update this story as court proceedings continue.
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