LOUISVILLE, Kentucky — The death of Martin Nitzken Jr., a 27-year-old Louisville man who was fatally shot by Louisville Metro Police Department Officer Nathan Stotts during a mental health crisis, has sparked widespread community concern, calls for reform, and an ongoing criminal investigation. The shooting occurred on the night of May 30, 2026, in the 3000 block of Cromarty Way, where police had responded to reports of assaults involving Nitzken during what family members and witnesses described as a severe mental health episode.
In the days following the incident, Louisville Metro Police Chief Paul Humphrey announced that he had begun termination proceedings against Officer Stotts, stating that the shooting did not meet departmental standards, training, or values. Humphrey also confirmed that the case has been referred for criminal review.
Events Leading Up to the Fatal Encounter
According to Louisville Metro Police, officers were dispatched shortly after 9:27 p.m. on May 30 following multiple 911 calls reporting that Martin Nitzken Jr. had assaulted his girlfriend and two of her friends while they were gathered at a residence on Cromarty Way. Callers told dispatchers that Nitzken was experiencing a mental health crisis and that he had bipolar disorder. One caller described him as “definitely having a mental break.”
Police said that after the reported assaults, Nitzken left the residence, removed his clothing, wandered through the neighborhood, damaged property, and became involved in an altercation with a neighbor who attempted to calm him down. Officers responding to the area were advised that the situation involved both alleged assaults and a behavioral health emergency.
Body Camera Footage Becomes Central Evidence
The Louisville Metro Police Department later released body camera and aerial footage showing Officer Nathan Stotts arriving at the scene and encountering Nitzken in the roadway. Video reviewed by department leadership showed Nitzken naked, unarmed, and appearing disoriented. Officer Stotts repeatedly ordered him to stop and show his hands. As Nitzken moved toward the officer, Stotts fired a single shot. Nitzken collapsed and later died from his injuries.
Chief Humphrey stated publicly that after reviewing the footage, dispatch records, and preliminary investigative findings, he concluded that the officer’s actions were inconsistent with department expectations.
“This is not an acceptable performance for us,” Humphrey said while announcing the termination process. He further stated that while officers often face difficult decisions, this was not a situation in which deadly force should have been used.
Investigators also noted concerns that medical aid was not immediately rendered following the shooting, a factor that has drawn additional scrutiny during the review process.
Criminal Investigation Continues
In addition to the administrative review, Louisville Metro Police confirmed that its Public Integrity Unit is conducting a criminal investigation into the shooting. The findings will ultimately be submitted to prosecutors for review and determination regarding potential criminal charges. Mayor Craig Greenberg has publicly supported the decision to move forward with termination proceedings and emphasized the importance of accountability.
Officer Nathan Stotts joined the Louisville Metro Police Department in February 2024 and had no prior disciplinary history before the shooting, according to department officials.
Community Calls for Mental Health Response Reform
The shooting has reignited debate throughout Louisville regarding how law enforcement responds to behavioral health emergencies. Community leaders, advocacy organizations, and residents have questioned whether additional crisis intervention resources could have prevented the deadly outcome. Several groups have called for expanded co-responder programs that would pair police officers with mental health professionals during certain emergency calls.
Chief Humphrey acknowledged that the situation required a police response because of reports of violence but stressed that the outcome should have been different. City officials have since renewed discussions regarding mental health crisis response programs and alternative intervention models.
Remembering Martin Nitzken Jr.
While public attention remains focused on the investigation, those who knew Martin Nitzken Jr. are mourning the loss of a son, loved one, and community member whose life ended during a moment of crisis.
Friends and family members have expressed heartbreak over the circumstances surrounding his death, particularly after 911 callers repeatedly informed dispatchers that he was experiencing a severe mental health episode. Loved ones continue grappling with the loss while seeking answers regarding the events that unfolded that night.
For many in Louisville, the tragedy has become a painful reminder of the challenges communities face when mental illness, public safety concerns, and emergency response systems intersect.
Ongoing Review and Search for Answers
As investigations continue, officials are reviewing body camera footage, dispatch records, witness statements, and departmental policies to determine whether additional actions should be taken. The outcome of both the criminal investigation and internal review will likely influence future discussions about police accountability and mental health crisis response in Louisville.
Martin Nitzken Jr.’s death has left family members, friends, neighbors, and community advocates searching for answers while honoring the memory of a man whose life ended amid a mental health emergency.
Martin Nitzken Jr., 27, is remembered by those who knew and loved him. As Louisville continues to examine the circumstances surrounding his death, his memory remains at the center of ongoing conversations about mental health, public safety, and accountability.