On 21 March 2025, officers arrived at Dignean’s home to execute an order of protection and remove a 3-year-old child from his custody. After being told a family member would collect the child, Dignean violently resisted. During the ensuing struggle, he seized a 7″×17″, 8-lb steel C-clamp and struck Trooper Junyla Sabari on the head.
Deputy Corey Whitney deployed his taser, which failed to subdue Dignean. Whitney then discharged his service pistol twice, both rounds striking Dignean. The child was safely retrieved and placed with relatives. Dignean was rushed to hospital but was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
Deputy Corey Whitney deployed his taser, which failed to subdue Dignean. Whitney then discharged his service pistol twice, both rounds striking Dignean. The child was safely retrieved and placed with relatives. Dignean was rushed to hospital but was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
