Texas Student Fatally Shot by Campus Police After Traffic Stop
Police say Robert Cameron Redus was shot multiple times during a struggle.
Dec. 9, 2013— -- A 23-year-old honor student is dead after he was fatally shot by a campus police officer during a traffic stop in San Antonio, Texas, police said.
University of the Incarnate Word student Robert Cameron Redus was pulled over by Cpl. Christopher Carter at 2:30 a.m. Friday near the campus for driving "erratically at a high rate of speed," police said. Then, according to police, "a struggle ensued between the suspect driver and the police officer." The incident occurred in the parking lot of the Tree House Apartments, which is adjacent to the campus.
Redus was shot multiple times during the struggle and pronounced dead at the scene, police said.
"There was boom, boom, boom, boom, boom -- six shots," a witness, who asked to not be identified, told ABC News affiliate KSAT-TV.
Authorities say it's unclear why the struggle ensued and why Redus was shot multiple times. The University confirmed that Carter is on paid administrative leave while the investigation continues, which is standard procedure for police agencies in Texas. Carter "has an extensive law-enforcement background" and has been with the school for "several years," the university said in a statement.
ABC News was unable to reach Carter for comment. Police didn't provide additonal details of the incident.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the student and officer involved in this incident," said UIW President Dr. Lou Agnese in the release.
Redus' family said in a statement, "We are understandably devastated by the death of our dear son Cameron and we ask for your prayers as we deal with our tragic loss."
Redus' friends are still in shock and gathered at the campus Saturday to remember him at a vigil.
"He's not an aggressive person at all, so the story just doesn't really make sense to any of us," student Sarah Davis told KSAT.
Others remembered Redus as a kind, well-liked student within the university community.
"Cameron was the sweetest, kindest, gentlest person," Redus' friend Annie Jones said. "So compassionate."
The incident is being investigated by the Alamo Heights Police Department with the assistance of the Texas Rangers.