Police officers in Spring Garden Township shot and killed a man who had opened fire at them during the investigation of a break-in and domestic violence call. 

After telling them to “back off” and saying that he had plenty of ammunition, Payden Sells, 34, fired more than seven shots at law enforcement officers who had arrived on scene at the home of Sells's estranged wife. 

Accusations of any crime, including those related to domestic violence, are difficult to bear. If you're in this situation, the best choice you can make is to contact the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team by calling 888.535.3686 or by filling out this contact form.   

An Unfortunate Incident for Everyone Involved 

Shortly after 11 p.m., officers responded to reports of a man armed with at least two weapons attempting to enter a home in York County's Spring Garden Township. In all, officers from five different Pennsylvania law enforcement agencies arrived on the scene. 

When they arrived, Sells, of Spring Garden, exited the home's front door while “actively shooting a firearm in the direction of law enforcement offices,” state police later reported. After a brief altercation during which both Sells and responding officers moved throughout the home and exchanged fire, Sells was fatally shot. 

One police officer suffered minor injuries unrelated to the gunfire. 

Sells's estranged wife and her two dogs were safely removed from the home. 

Escalation Never Ends Well 

Cases of domestic violence are usually fueled by strong emotions, and feeling angry, betrayed, hurt, or vengeful are all natural human reactions. However, it's never a good idea to let those emotions overrule your logic and good sense.  

No matter what crimes you have committed or are being accused of, no matter how dire the situation may seem, things can almost always get worse—as evidenced by the Sells case. Of course, not all allegations of domestic violence lead to fatalities. But if you let your emotions sway you and escalate the situation in any way, you may be facing additional charges. Those will make it harder than ever to resolve the matter, regardless of your guilt or innocence.  

The Best Path Forward  

While the circumstances may seem impossible to overcome, they're not—not unless you take drastic action that ends in your own death, that is. With the help of the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team, you can achieve the best possible outcome and go on to change your life for the better as a result. 

Contact them to get started. Call 888.535.3686 or click here.