Capitol cop who shot rioter Ashli Babbitt dead sheds a tear as he says killing her was ‘a last resort’: Lt Michael Byrd claims he ‘saved countless lives’ during January 6th violence in interview with NBC’s Lester Holt

Speaking hours after he was publicly identified for the first time, Lt Michael Byrd went on the defensive during an interview with NBC News star Lester Holt Thursday.

Explaining his decision to finally come forward, Byrd – a 28-year veteran of the force – said: ‘I showed the utmost courage on January 6, and its time for me to do that now.’