The Cambridge Police Department has been notified that the independent judicial inquest, conducted by Judge Holly Broadbent, into the August 21 officer-involved shooting on Temple Street has concluded. Following a review of the circumstances and evidence surrounding the incident, the actions of the Cambridge Police officers involved were determined to be reasonable and justified.
The
Middlesex District Attorney’s Office has released the inquest findings and body-worn camera footage from the incident.
The footage provides important context regarding the dangerous and rapidly evolving circumstances the responding officers encountered that evening and the critical decisions they were required to make within seconds.
The Cambridge Police Department is grateful for the professionalism, courage, and training demonstrated by the officers involved. Their response under extraordinarily difficult circumstances was instrumental in preventing an already dangerous encounter from resulting in further serious injury or loss of life. We are grateful that the responding officers were not seriously injured and recognize the significant and lasting impact an incident of this nature can have on those involved. The Department remains committed to supporting the officers and ensuring they have the resources they need in the days and months ahead.
We also recognize that this incident resulted in the loss of a life and has had an impact on many people. We continue to extend our condolences to Mr. Woodworth’s family and loved ones as we acknowledge the findings of the independent review.
The release of the inquest findings and body-worn camera footage provides the public with a more complete account of the circumstances surrounding the incident and the response of the officers that evening. It is also consistent with the Department’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
The body-worn camera footage is graphic and potentially distressing to watch. We strongly encourage members of the media and the public to use discretion when viewing or sharing the footage. We also encourage those seeking to understand the incident to review the full findings and available materials so the events can be considered in their complete context.
The Cambridge Police Department remains committed to transparency, accountability, and maintaining the trust of the community we serve.
