In which of the following scenarios may deadly force be applied?

The application of deadly force is primarily justified in scenarios where there is a direct and imminent threat to one's life or the life of another person. In this context, using deadly force in self-defense under the circumstances described is legal because it adheres to the principle of preserving life when faced with severe and immediate danger.

Specifically, when a person genuinely believes that their life is in jeopardy, and no reasonable alternatives exist to avert the threat, the use of deadly force can be warranted. This rationale is grounded in self-defense laws, which recognize the right to protect oneself from life-threatening acts.

In contrast, situations such as preventing theft of property or during a heated argument do not typically justify lethal responses, as the threat to life is not immediate or severe enough to warrant such a drastic measure. Additionally, an officer feeling threatened may not automatically require the use of deadly force, as law enforcement protocols often require de-escalation techniques to manage perceived threats safely.