On the one hand I totally agree with you, but I have to accept that the police would have been held liable if they did allow it and the guy soaked in gas lit himself up and killed or injured the good samaritans.
Given that he was talking with the neighbor without incident prior to the arrival of the police, it is safe to assume that, since he clearly trusted and respected his neighbor, that trend would continue.
Neighbors who care for and look out for each other trump a “professional” government employee “who knows how to handle such delicate situations” every time.
That's likely the case. But, is there no liability for the guy who did die? Or is he worthless because he was threatening the suicide thing? If the effect of a policy that forces the police to vacate the neighbor is on-the-spot execution by cops, then somebody needs to review that policy.