In what situation may a private actor use deadly force during an arrest?

In the context of using deadly force by a private actor during an arrest, the situation that allows for this use of force hinges on the justifications typically associated with self-defense or the defense of others.

When assessing the legality of using deadly force, it is essential to determine if there was an imminent threat to the person or others. The law generally recognizes the right to use reasonable force in self-defense or in defense of others when facing a threat of serious bodily harm or death. If a private actor is attempting to make a citizen's arrest and believes that they or someone else is in immediate danger, they may employ deadly force as a necessary and proportionate response to that imminent threat.

This is distinct from scenarios involving the severity of the crime alone, the presence of law enforcement, or mere feelings of being threatened. For instance, even if the crime is serious, a private individual cannot justify the use of deadly force solely based on the nature of the crime unless self-defense or defense of others principles are also satisfied. Therefore, the reasoning behind choosing the justification of self-defense and defense of others is grounded in the need to ensure the response is proportional and aimed at protecting oneself or others from undue harm.