FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) -- Former Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) Sgt. Wesley Shifflett defended himself in court Tuesday as to why he shot and killed a suspected shoplifter in Tysons more than 18 months ago. For over an hour, Shifflett, who is accused of involuntary manslaughter, explained on the stand that he was in fear for his life when he fatally shot 37-year-old Timothy Johnson. Shifflett shot Johnson in a brushy area near Tysons Corner Center on the night of Feb. 22, 2023. He said he shot Johnson when he got up on his knees after he fell and reached into his waistband. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Former Fairfax County police sergeant on trial for deadly Tysons shooting The former sergeant said he believed Johnson - whom he said refused orders to comply - was reaching for a weapon. Police later confirmed he did not have one. Officers chased Johnson to the wooded area after police said he had stolen two pairs of designer sunglasses from Nordstrom. Johnson's mother, Melissa Johnson, left the courtroom during Shifflett's testimony. She prayed toward the end of Tuesday's hearing after she returned. More witnesses will take the stand on Wednesday.