Editor’s note: This story was originally reported in February 2017 and is being republished.

A Florida man who shot and killed an individual attacking a sheriff’s deputy will not face criminal charges, authorities announced.

Ashad Russell, 35, was cleared by the State Attorney’s Office after he stepped in during a violent altercation involving Lee County Sheriff’s Deputy First Class Dean Bardes on Interstate 75. According to reports, Russell witnessed Edward Strother, 53, assaulting Deputy Bardes following a traffic stop for speeding.

Strother allegedly attacked the deputy, punching him and pinning him to the ground. Russell, who had a concealed carry permit and was legally armed, stopped his vehicle and approached the scene.

Deputy Bardes, recognizing that Russell had a firearm, reportedly pleaded with him to shoot the suspect. After repeatedly ordering Strother to stop the assault, Russell fired three times, fatally striking Strother in the neck.

The Lee County Sheriff at the time, Mike Scott, praised Russell’s actions on Facebook, calling them heroic. The State Attorney’s Office later determined that Russell was “justified in using deadly force,” stating that he had a reasonable belief that it was necessary to prevent serious injury or death to Deputy Bardes.

In a formal statement, the State Attorney’s Office concluded:

“Based on the evidence and applicable law, our review is now closed. No further action will be taken.”

However, not everyone agreed with the decision. Edward Strother’s brother, Louis Strother, voiced skepticism, questioning whether the situation truly warranted deadly force.

“They’re calling him a good Samaritan?” he said. “Did my brother even have a gun?”