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Police: Bellagio suspect pointed gun at couple

Posted at 8:11 AM, Jan 26, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-26 18:54:53-05

Las Vegas police started a press conference Tuesday on Friday's officer-involved shooting by apologizing to the innocent bystanders who were hit.

Officer George Smith was aiming at Kahleal Black, who police said was aiming a gun at the officer, as well as a couple watching street performers and a family at the Bellagio fountains. According to police, he refused to drop his weapon.

Smith's shots missed, grazing two passersby, including a 4-year-old child. Both of them were not seriously injured.

Police said it was later discovered the gun was not loaded and it was stolen.

Before the shooting, Black was escorted off the Harrah's hotel-casino property.

Police cited multiple incidents with Black in 2015. He had been a John Doe at the time, refusing to give his identity. He was not named until 3 days after his arrest Friday.

Black had been on a mental health hold previously and made suicidal threats while in custody.

Police are continuing to investigate the incident. Police said a ricocheted bullet traveled 95 yards.

Smith is on paid routine leave while the incident is being invested.

Black is expected to be in court Wednesday.