Police: Duluth man shot by officer likely to live

Duluth police say a man who cut himself and was shot twice by an officer is expected to live.

WDIO-TV reports Duluth Police Chief Gordon Ramsay identified the man Tuesday as 34-year-old Joe Zontelli. He said Officer Marc Johnson shot him because Johnson feared for the safety of the people present.

Johnson was placed on administrative leave, following standard protocol. He's a seven-year veteran of the department.

Ramsay says Zontelli had cut himself and was bleeding when officers arrived at his home Monday. He says Zontelli locked himself in a basement.

Officers forced open the door and deployed a dog to distract him. Police say Johnson fired his gun after Zontelli refused to drop his knife.

Ramsay says officers can't count on stun guns in life-threatening situations.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.