Suspect charged in West Valley City officer-involved shooting

A transient shot by West Valley City police last month after he allegedly threatened an officer with a knife has been charged with attempted criminal homicide.

Salt Lake County prosecutors charged Oston Shiloh Fairbourn, 24, in 3rd District Court with the first-degree felony along with assaulting a police officer, interference with an arresting officer, carrying a concealed weapon, failure of a pedestrian to yield and disorderly conduct.

Prosecutors allege that West Valley City officer J. Vincent saw Fairbourn acting strangely on Dec. 15 as Fairbourn walked in traffic at 3500 S. 3200 West.

When Vincent approached Fairbourn, prosecutors say the defendant displayed a large, fixed-blade knife, which he refused to drop when ordered, according to charging documents.

Fairbourn then stepped toward Vincent and was ordered to stop. Vincent then shot Fairbourn.

A witness told police that Fairbourn was 3-5 feet from the officer when he saw Fairbourn grab his stomach, as a result of being shot, according to charges.

Police said the gunshot wound didn't stop Fairbourn. When a backup officer arrived, he saw Fairbourn on the ground, propped up on his elbow and saw the large knife on the ground next him.

Fairbourn then rolled on top of the knife and tucked his arms under his body, police said.

It took five officers to get Fairbourn under control, and he had to be strapped to a gurney in order to be transported to the hospital for treatment.

An initial court appearance has not yet been scheduled. Bond has been set at $50,000, cash-only.

jstecklein@sltrib.com

Twitter @sltribjanelle