ST. ANTHONY, Minn. (AP) -” A Minnesota police chief is defending his officer who shot and killed a black man during a July traffic stop.

St. Anthony Police Chief Jon Mangseth spoke to The Associated Press Wednesday in his first interview since the July 6 officer-involved death of Philando Castile. The 32-year-old Castile was fatally shot during a traffic stop by officer Jeronimo Yanez.

Mangseth calls Yanez a skilled and energetic officer with a proven ability to relate to people. His account contrasts with the aftermath of the shooting broadcast live on Facebook, in which Yanez was shown yelling expletives while pointing the gun at a bleeding Castile. Mangseth says that's a common reaction in a high-stress situation.

Yanez was expected to return to work Wednesday in an administrative role.

More From KROC-AM