BEND, OR -- The Deschutes County District Attorney says an 18-year-old involved in an officer-involved shooting in Bend on March 20th died of a self-inflicted wound. Witnesses reported a vehicle traveling at over 90 miles an hour on the Bend Parkway that evening. The driver, later identified as Gabriel Platz, was then involved in a three-car crash. One of the other involved drivers told 911 dispatchers Platz smelled of alcohol. 

When police arrived, District Attorney Steve Gunnels says Platz was still in his vehicle and officers noticed a handgun on the floor. The DA says Platz disregarded commands to not pickup the gun. Investigators determined Platz was shot by police at the same time he sustained a fatal self-inflicted gunshot wound. The incident was captured by two officers' bodycams. According to the autopsy, one of the bullets fired by police entered his leg, the other his chest. The self-inflicted wound was to his temple. 

DA Gunnels says the officer's "use of deadly force was reasonable to defend himself" other officers and bystanders. 

Bend Police Chief Mike Krantz issued a statement thanking the DA and the Tri-County Major Incident Team for the "rapid, transparent and thorough investigation." He says, "The completion of the District Attorney's Office review brings to a close the criminal investigation required following these types of incidents. The Bend Police Department will now conduct an administrative review, which aims to assess whether officers adhered to department policies and procedures during the incident."

Krantz went on to say, "My thoughts are with everyone affected by this incident, and I remain steadfast in ensuring our entire community knows that the Bend Police Department is committed to upholding their safety and well-being." And he urged anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or knows of someone who is to call 988 or County Behavioral Health at 541-322-7500. 

An image from an officer's bodycam shows Gabriel Platz raising his handgun, according to DA Gunnels' report.