'The Worst Nightmare of My Life': Son of Man Killed by SWAT Says the Debate Is Missing Something Crucial

As protesters took to the streets of Minneapolis, Minn. on February 8, marking the one-month anniversary of Renee Good's death at the hands of an immigration officer, the protest revived memories of Lyle Federman, a 42-year-old man, who was killed more than two decades ago by Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) “using excessive force.”

Federman was shot at least 18 times and killed on April 21, 1998, by deputies from the Kern County Sheriff's Department. On that fateful day, deputies responded to a 911 call from neighbor Rosie Trammel who raised concern about Federman's behavior, saying he was starting small brush-clearing fires on his ranch property. Kern County Sheriff’s Department (KCSD) Sergeant Adam arrived at his home with a fire truck.

Adam allegedly knocked on the door and drew his gun. The 42-year-old, who was reportedly alone at home, questioned his intentions and also accused him of being out of line. Federman allegedly hurled expletives at Adam.

Following a heated exchange, Adam reportedly concluded that Federman "had lost touch with reality" and decided he should be taken into custody for psychiatric evaluation. The deputy then called for the SWAT team.

When the SWAT team arrived, members positioned snipers, powered with high-powered rifles, around his ranch house. Federman, described as visibly distraught, refused to communicate with the authorities and did not answer phone calls.

Deputies tossed a phone through his home's back bedroom window. Federman answered and spoke to KCSD Deputy Fennell, asking why a routine incident was turned into a paramilitary operation.

According to the SWAT team, Fennell wanted to coax Federman toward the broken window so personnel could spray pepper spray. Then they would charge into the house and take Federman into custody. However, the plan could not be executed as the SWAT team claimed Federman fired two rounds from his hunting rifle. Investigators later disputed that claim.

According to another testimony, Federman approached the front door with his hands raised while holding a rifle and a handgun, but he complied with SWAT orders to drop both firearms.

At that moment, SWAT team member Dahl fired non-lethal wooden dowel bullets at Federman. This was followed by live ammunition rounds from other deputies. After the shooting, the SWAT team handcuffed Federman and dragged him for approximately 20 feet. Paramedics later declared him dead.

Family and friends have since been fighting a long battle for justice and calling out for stricter reforms against the workings of the law enforcement agencies.

The killing of Renee Nicole Good on January 7, an unarmed 37-year-old mother of three, in her attempt to avoid the immigration officers in a Minneapolis neighborhood has stoked outrage nationwide over President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. The death of another resident, Alex Pretti, just weeks later has also invoked widespread protest.

The recent incidents of killings by immigration officers has reignited the debate on how tactics used by law enforcement agencies need reform.