The San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) recently released surveillance and body camera footage regarding a critical incident that occurred on November 19th, 2021. The incident began after a tenant at the Covered Wagon Hotel contacted 9-1-1, informing police that another tenant, identified as 41-year-old Ajmal Amani, was armed with a knife and threatening people.

As indicated by the surveillance and body camera footage, officers assigned to SFPD responded to the 900 block of Folsom Street. Shortly after entering the residential hotel, officers communicated with Amani in an attempt to de-escalate the hostile situation. Unfortunately, none of these de-escalation tactics were effective. As responding officers held position along the hall; a short distance from Amani's room, Amani eventually emerged from his room, still armed with the knife. Amani charged at the officers, forcing an officer involved shooting.

Amani was provided medical aid from responding officers until medical transport arrived on the scene. He later succumbed to his injuries and was officially pronounced deceased at an area hospital.

After further researching who Amani was, Amani reportedly served as a U.S. Government contracted interpreter for the Navy SEALS, for nearly a decade in Afghanistan. Being wounded numerous times during his service, Amani sought a better life and eventually moved to the U.S. in 2014 on a visa. Reports have additionally indicated Amani struggled with severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) since his move to the U.S.

This however was not the first incident Amani encountered with the law since his move in 2014. In November of 2019, Amani reportedly crashed a woman's vehicle and used a box cutter against a city Park Ranger who responded to the incident. Because of this, Amani had faced attempted murder charges connected to the vehicle crash, however these charges were dismissed after Amani completed a mental health diversion in August.

If any of you are currently struggling with mental health issues, please contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 or text 838255.

You are not alone.