Gregory Michael Beaudet, a 22-year-old native of the Capital Region, tragically lost his life on August 27, 2009, in San Diego, California. Beaudet, who had graduated from Shaker High School in Latham and later joined the U.S. Navy, was shot by a San Diego police officer outside Ralph's supermarket in the Marina neighborhood. The incident occurred around 11:45 p.m. when officers on bicycles responded to a robbery in progress.
Upon arrival, they found several supermarket employees struggling with two men, one of whom was identified as Beaudet. According to police reports, Beaudet kicked at the officers, prompting them to use a baton, which was unsuccessful. Beaudet then produced a knife and began waving it at the officers and several citizens. From a distance of less than five feet, Beaudet made a stabbing motion towards one of the officers, who, fearing for his life and the lives of others, fired two rounds at Beaudet. Beaudet was struck by the gunfire and collapsed a short distance from the scene. He was taken to a trauma center where he died from the gunshot wounds the next morning.
The San Diego Police Department's homicide detectives launched an investigation into the shooting, which also involved internal investigators. The officer who fired the shots, identified as Jared Wilson, was not believed to have acted without reason. San Diego Police Captain Terrence McManus stated that the officer felt his life was in danger, as well as the lives of his partner and other citizens. The investigation revealed that Beaudet had been brandishing a knife and making threatening motions towards the officer. Another suspect involved in the incident was identified as Joseph Kidis, while a third alleged accomplice fled the scene before police arrived.
Beaudet's death was a significant event that drew attention to the actions of the police officers involved. The internal investigation aimed to determine whether the use of deadly force was justified under the circumstances. The case also highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement officers when dealing with potentially dangerous situations and the split-second decisions they must make to protect themselves and others. Beaudet's family and friends mourned his loss, remembering him as a former Boy Scout, an avid rock climber, and a dedicated search and rescue swimmer who had served aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Persian Gulf. His obituary noted his contributions and the impact he had on those who knew him, with a Mass held in his honor at Our Lady of the Assumption Church.
