On Wednesday, November 13, 65-year-old Peter Greco was fatally shot by Fargo Police officers in his south Fargo residence following a prolonged attempt to de-escalate a crisis situation. The incident took place in the 6100 block of 61st Avenue South, just half a mile from Deer Creek Elementary School. The tragic event has sparked a deep examination of the handling of crisis situations, the mental health challenges facing the community, and the role of law enforcement in providing support during such times.
Authorities identified the officers involved as Sgt. Lucas Mock and Officer Princeten Harris. Following a report concerning Greco’s well-being and reported suicidal ideation, both officers engaged in an extended conversation with him, attempting to help and reduce the immediate threat. Ultimately, Greco emerged from his home holding a handgun, and in response, the officers discharged their weapons, resulting in his death. This incident has prompted a use-of-force investigation by the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and the Fargo Police Department has expressed its commitment to transparency as the investigation unfolds.
Responding to the Call: Timeline of Events
The Fargo Police Department dispatch received a call at 10:12 a.m. on November 13, requesting assistance with Peter Greco, whose family or associates expressed grave concern over his mental state. The caller indicated that Greco had mentioned suicidal thoughts, raising alarm about his immediate safety. Officers were immediately sent to Greco’s address on 61st Avenue South, located in a quiet residential area near Deer Creek Elementary School, an area known for its suburban calm and family-oriented community.
Upon arrival, Fargo Police Officers Sgt. Lucas Mock and Officer Princeten Harris observed signs of distress and initiated a dialogue with Greco. Both officers had specialized training in crisis intervention, aiming to employ de-escalation techniques to prevent the situation from escalating into a confrontation. The two officers communicated with Greco for over 30 minutes, attempting to offer support, understanding, and alternative resolutions to the situation. Throughout their discussion, they encouraged him to surrender peacefully and assured him of their intention to help.
The Fatal Confrontation
Despite the officers’ best efforts, the situation took a tragic turn. After half an hour of conversation with the officers, Greco emerged from his residence holding a handgun. The sight of the weapon immediately intensified the risk level, prompting the officers to make a rapid, life-or-death decision. Given the potential danger to themselves and any civilians in the vicinity, both Sgt. Mock and Officer Harris fired their weapons, striking Greco. Emergency medical personnel who had been on standby rushed to administer aid, supported by units from the Fargo Fire Department.
Sadly, despite prompt and thorough emergency intervention, Peter Greco was pronounced dead at the scene. This tragic end marked the culmination of a situation that Fargo authorities and community leaders are now examining carefully, underscoring the often harsh reality of law enforcement’s role in mental health crises.
Background of Officers Involved
Following standard protocol, the Fargo Police Department placed both Sgt. Mock and Officer Harris on paid administrative leave, pending the results of the ongoing investigation. As the situation remains under scrutiny, the officers’ backgrounds and professional records have come to light.
Sgt. Lucas Mock
- Tenure and Experience: Sgt. Lucas Mock has served with the Fargo Police Department since 2016. Initially joining as a patrol officer, he climbed the ranks and was promoted to sergeant in November 2021. Over his tenure, he has been known for his professionalism and dedication to public service.
- Roles and Responsibilities: Sgt. Mock served as a day-shift supervisor within the Neighborhood Services Division, overseeing patrol operations in designated community zones and frequently working on cases requiring de-escalation skills.
- Specialized Training and Contributions: Mock was commander of the department’s Crowd Management Team and previously served for four years as a member of the Red River Valley SWAT team, which gave him experience in managing high-risk situations. Additionally, he acted as an instructor in the department’s Training and Development Unit, contributing his expertise in situational response and crisis management.
Officer Princeten Harris
- New Tenure: Officer Princeten Harris is a recent graduate of the Fargo Police Academy (Class VII). At the time of the incident, Harris was still in the process of completing the Police Training Officer (PTO) program, with just 10 months of active duty experience.
- Role and Responsibilities: Harris’s initial assignments largely focused on patrol duties, offering him real-time exposure to diverse on-the-ground situations, under the guidance of experienced supervisors like Sgt. Mock.
Both officers, recognized for their training and commitment to service, are now under intense scrutiny as the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation evaluates the precise circumstances that led to their use of lethal force.
Fargo Police Department’s Response
In a public statement, Fargo Police Chief Dave Zibolski addressed the incident with a focus on the officers’ extensive efforts to peacefully resolve the situation. Chief Zibolski expressed his condolences to Greco’s family and stressed the difficult position officers often find themselves in when responding to mental health crises. “Our officers did everything in their power to de-escalate this situation,” Zibolski remarked. “While the investigation will determine the specifics, our goal as a department remains to ensure the safety and well-being of every individual we encounter, even in the most challenging circumstances.”
Chief Zibolski also reiterated the department’s commitment to transparency as the investigation progresses. Both officers’ body camera footage, dispatch logs, and any relevant communication records are being reviewed as part of a comprehensive assessment by the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation. The goal, according to Chief Zibolski, is to provide a full, accurate account of the events, balancing the need for public accountability with respect for the grieving family.
Investigative and Legal Processes
As of now, the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation is conducting a thorough review of the incident, assessing all factors, including the officers’ actions and Greco’s behavior, to determine the justification and legality of the use of force. The Bureau’s investigation is expected to include:
- Review of Body Camera Footage: Both Sgt. Mock and Officer Harris were equipped with body cameras. The footage is expected to provide critical insights into the officers’ decision-making process, Greco’s actions, and the escalation of events leading to the shooting.
- Examination of Witness Testimony: Any bystanders, emergency responders, and potentially Greco’s family members or neighbors will likely be interviewed to help investigators build a well-rounded understanding of the incident.
- Analysis of Dispatch Logs: Audio and digital logs from dispatch communications may reveal further details about the officers’ instructions, Greco’s reported state of mind, and any specific steps taken by officers to offer him support.
- Mental Health Crisis Assessment: The Bureau will evaluate whether the responding officers followed department policies on handling mental health crises, considering Fargo Police’s training on crisis intervention and de-escalation.
The investigative team aims to clarify whether the officers adhered to the Fargo Police Department’s standards on crisis response and assess any potential for procedural improvements.
Community and Public Reactions
The incident has sparked a wave of responses within the Fargo community. Many residents have expressed sorrow over the death of Peter Greco, calling for a deeper examination of how mental health crises are managed by law enforcement. Local mental health advocates have voiced concerns about the risks associated with police intervention in cases involving individuals experiencing severe mental health distress.
This tragedy has reignited discussions surrounding the adequacy of Fargo’s crisis response infrastructure. Some advocates propose that additional resources, such as crisis intervention specialists or mental health co-responders, could be deployed alongside police officers in situations like Greco’s, potentially offering alternative outcomes. This suggestion has gained support in various cities nationwide as a way to enhance safety for both individuals in crisis and responding officers.
Moving Forward: Addressing Mental Health Crises and Law Enforcement
In light of the recent events, authorities are reinforcing calls for mental health awareness and support within Fargo. The Fargo Police Department is currently reviewing its training programs and procedures to ensure its officers are equipped to handle complex, emotionally charged situations. According to Chief Zibolski, “We’re constantly examining our practices and investing in advanced training to ensure the best outcomes possible. In cases like this, the need for balance between enforcement and compassion becomes incredibly clear.”
Additionally, Chief Zibolski and Fargo community leaders have advocated for greater awareness of mental health resources. They encourage individuals facing similar crises to seek help through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or local mental health services, emphasizing that there are safe avenues for support. The hope is that by increasing accessibility to resources, tragedies like Greco’s can be prevented, offering those struggling with mental health challenges the assistance they need without escalation.
A Tragic End: Remembering Peter Greco
As the Fargo community mourns Peter Greco’s passing, his family and friends reflect on his life and legacy. Described by neighbors as a quiet man who valued his privacy, Greco was also remembered as someone with a kind heart, even amid his personal struggles. His family has requested privacy as they cope with the loss and navigate the complex emotions that follow such a tragedy.
While questions remain, this incident has underscored the broader societal responsibility to address mental health issues and to examine the role of law enforcement in situations of mental health crises.
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