Man shot byDaytonpolice onSundaydies

The man shot DAYTON — by police during a reported domestic violence incident Sunday evening has died.

Donald Saunders, 37, was pronounced deadMonday, according to Montgomery County Coroner Dr. Kent

Harshbarger.

Saunders was shot at least four times after he pointed a gun at officers, Dayton police Lt. Col. Matt Carper said Monday.

Sgt. Joseph Setty and officers Joshua Blankley and Michael Floyd were called around 11:45 p.m. Sunday to the 1700 block of Rangeley Avenue after a neighbor called 9-1-1, saying amanwas hitting a woman.

Whenpolice arrived, they found blood on the door and identified themselves. A womaninsidescreamed, said Carper, prompting police to force their way into the apartment.

“As officers forced open the door they were met by the suspect, later identified as Donald Saunders, who was attempting to keep the door closed with his body,” Carper said.

Police were able to enter the apartment, and saw Saunders with a semi-automatic pistol in the living room.

He pointed the gun into the chest of the supervising officer, Carper said. The officer was able to bat away theweapon; however, Saunders maintained control of the gun and again pointed it at officers.

“The officers, fearing for their lives, and for the female victim inside, engaged the suspect withgunfire,” Carper said.

Nine shell casings were recovered from the scene.

Police are investigating to seewhether Saunders fired at the officers.

No officers were injured. All threewere placed onpaid leave pending an investigation, which is standardpolicy following a police shooting.