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Police identity man shot, killed by Ottawa Co. deputy

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HOLLAND TOWNSHIP, Mich. — Michigan State Police have released more details in an officer-involved shooting from Wednesday night in Holland Township.

The man killed has been identified as David Thelen, 43, of Holland.  Family members had identified Thelen to FOX 17 on Wednesday night.

Police say that a final autopsy and toxicology report will take weeks to complete.  When MSP finishes the investigation, the report will be sent to the Ottawa County Prosecutor to review any possible charges.

The incident happened in 300 block of Beeline Road on Wednesday evening. Ottawa County Sheriff Steve Kempker says deputies responded to a medical emergency. Officers approached the apartment where they say Thelen came out of the front door and started acting aggressively while aiming a large knife at them.

Kempker says the deputy ordered Thelen to drop his knife several times, but he refused and continued towards him. That’s when the deputy fired three shots, killing him.

The deputy who fired the shots is on paid administrative leave pending the investigation from Michigan State Police. The deputy was not injured.

Investigators are still looking for more witnesses or others who may have information about Thelen and the incident.  If you do, you should call MSP in Rockford at 616-866-4411.