Houston police kill wheelchair-bound man

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HOUSTON, Sept. 22 (UPI) -- Houston police shot and killed a mentally troubled, wheelchair-bound double amputee Saturday, authorities said.

Police said Brian Claunch, described as a schizophrenic in his 40s, was waving a writing pen when he was fatally shot about 2 a.m. at a personal care residence, the Houston Chronicle reported.

John Garcia, owner of the home, said Claunch had become upset when his caretaker wouldn't give him a soda and a cigarette, the newspaper said.

When officers arrived at the home, Claunch allegedly acted aggressively, made threats and ignored their commands, Garcia said his caretaker told him. Authorities said Claunch then trapped one officer in a corner.

"He was attempting to stab them with what is now found to be a pen," police spokeswoman Jodi Silva said.

A second officer, identified as five-year department veteran Matthew Marin, feared for the safety of his partner and himself and shot Claunch at least once, Silva said. He died at the scene.

Marin was placed on desk duty while the shooting is investigated.

Garcia said Claunch had told him he lost his right leg above the knee and his right arm when he was hit by a train.