Your theory is based on the idea that the shooter is telling the truth. My point is I’m not believing him out of hand. More information and verification is needed.
According to the article, the video backed up what he said, and showed the kid with his hands up lower one of his hands towards his waistband.
However, he could have screamed at the kid to raise his hands and make it clear that he will shoot if he “goes for his waistband again”- I think the shooting happened a bit too quick- but I’ve seen video of a cop telling a man to stop reaching g into his pocket, and the man who was walking away turned and killed the cop who didn’t have his gun out at that point- things happen so stinking fast sometimes- it can be a hard judgement call when something is playing out-
But we will see how it,plays out in court.