41-year-old Pepsi Lee Heinl was shot and killed by three Saint Paul Police officers Monday evening after her mother called 911 requesting help because she said Pepsi was suicidal. Body Camera footage was released by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Friday evening showing the moments that led to Pepsi's death.
The body cam footage that was released shows officers Chiking Chazonkhueze, Chee Lao and Yengkong Lor entering a residence on the 1100 block of Rose avenue located in Saint Paul's Eastside neighborhood just after 7pm. Upon entering officers hear a voice calling them to the back of the home. Once they arrive in the room where Pepsi and her mother are they only hear from Pepsi's mom for a few moments before Pepsi reaches under unidentifiable items and grabs a handgun. All three officers respond by firing multiple shots at her, killing her on scene.
At a press conference held by Saint Paul Police Chief Axel Henry he said that all officers in his department are trained to respond to mental health crisis, including himself and that all officers will be placed on administrative leave while the BCA continues their investigation.
According to an obituary shared by Pepsi's relatives her birth name was Biidaanbadoikwe Pepsi Lee Benjamin. Most recently she was a security guard. She leaves behind one son.
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Press Conference Night of Shooting
Press Conference with Police Chief After Body Cam Footage is Released