Lowell police officer justified in use of lethal force

LOWELL, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) -- Lowell police announced Saturday that one of their officers was justified in using lethal force during an incident that happened this past January.

Officer Phillip Valliant was involved in a shooting after stopping a truck that was reportedly stolen back on Jan. 16. Police say Valliant was forced to use lethal force by firing several shots to defend himself on Bellevue Street, where Christopher Bischoff attacked him with his truck.

Bischoff, 32, of Lowell, was arrested after he tried to evade the officer but was taken into custody a short distance away. He suffered serious but non-life threatening injuries due to the gun shots.

The officer was treated at local hospital as well and later released. His cruiser reportedly had a significant amount of damage.

After a long investigation, the Lowell Police Department announced Saturday that Valliant's use of force was justified, and fell under the Department Use of Force Policy.

Valliant has returned to his normal patrol duties.

Cox Media Group