What began as a routine traffic stop on the morning of June 29, 2010, led up to the deaths of two Tampa police officers. Last Friday, a judge allowed members of the media to view the video recording of the men’s final moments.

Defense attorneys for Dontae Morris fought to keep the tape from becoming public. The video camera mounted on the dash of Officer David Curtis’ cruiser recorded the entire shooting.

It was shown in the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office. The media was only allowed to enter with a pen and paper.

The video showed Officer Curtis stopping the vehicle for not having a license plate. The driver pulled over at N. 50th Street and E. 23rd Avenue.

Ms. Courtnee Brantley gave the officer her license. Her passenger, Dontae Morris, spelled his name for the officer.

Officer Curtis was joined by Officer Jeff Kocab as he returned to the car and informed Morris that there was an active warrant for his arrest. Morris exited the car and was told to put his hands behind his back.

Without warning, Morris turned slightly and fired twice in succession. He then stumbled over the falling officers as he made his escape. Both officers were fatally wounded.