Taser says Nashville offers were warned before man's death

By Vince Mancini

Published on September 29, 2005

Patrick Lee was stuneed several times during an altercation with police outside Mercy Lounge. He later died at Vanderbilt Hospital.

A bulletin from Taser International in June was forwarded to officers certified to use the devices, warning against prolonged or multiple discharges of the weapon, "especially when dealing with persons showing symptoms of excited delirium. These subjects are at significant and potentially fatal health risks for further prolonged exertion and/or impaired breathing."

The cause of Lee's death has not yet been determined. The state medical examiner is awaiting toxicology reports.

Metro Police Officers Jonathon Mays and Jamie Scruggs remain on duty while the department conducts its investigation.

Comment on this article →