The Tank Rampage that Shocked San Diego

⚠️The economy was booming in San Diego in 1995, but crime rates were high and the police department was overwhelmed.

🎯The disgruntled army veteran, Sean Nelson, turned to drugs and alcohol after a series of personal setbacks.

🚜Nelson stole a 100,000 pound tank from a National Guard Armory and went on a rampage through the city.

🚓Police requested assistance from the Marine Corps and a cobra attack helicopter was prepared.

🔫Officers attempted to stop Nelson but were unable to, so lethal force was used to protect the public.

What were the reasons behind Sean Nelson's rampage?

—Nelson's rampage was driven by personal setbacks, including the loss of his mother, divorce, and a motorcycle accident that left him with chronic pain.

Why did the police use lethal force?

—The police used lethal force because Nelson posed a serious threat to public safety, and attempts to stop him had failed.

Were there any casualties during the tank rampage?

—Fortunately, no one besides Nelson was injured during the rampage.

Did this incident lead to any changes in police procedures?

—The incident sparked public debate, but it did not result in significant changes in police procedures.

How did the tank rampage impact the city of San Diego?

—The tank rampage shocked the city and raised concerns about law enforcement's ability to handle such situations.

00:01In 1995, an army veteran named Sean Nelson stole a 100,000 pound tank from a National Guard Armory in San Diego.

00:37Nelson went on a rampaged through the city, smashing cars and causing chaos.

06:44After a 23-minute standoff, Nelson was shot by police and the tank was removed from the freeway.

09:39There was debate about whether the police were justified in using lethal force.