The death of an African-American man from police gunfire has revived the debate about racism in the US executive. Bodycam footage of the operation was released, showing Jayland Walker being hit by a hail of bullets while fleeing a traffic stop. According to police, the autopsy revealed that the 25-year-old’s body had 60 gunshot wounds. He was unarmed when he died.
Police said they wanted to detain Walker in Akron, Ohio, for an unspecified traffic violation. However, the young man escaped from the car and ran – the officers feared the 25-year-old wanted to shoot them before opening fire on him. According to the lawyer for the victim’s family, about 90 shots were fired.
In the bodycam footage released recently, the victim is blurry. The Akron Police Chief nevertheless described them as “difficult to watch” and “shocking”. “It was absolutely over the top,” attorney Bobby DiCello said at a news conference.
CPR attempts after 60 gunshot wounds
He added that after the released video ended, more shots were fired when Walker was already on the ground. “We know they handcuff him and roll him onto his back and try to save his life, which becomes hopeless after more than 60 wounds and more than 90 bullets,” the attorney said, according to the Washington Post.
Protect suspended – but still get salary
Police said an officer at the scene heard a gunshot from Walker’s car. A pistol was found in the vehicle next to a loaded magazine. An investigation has been launched. Eight of the officers involved have been placed on paid leave pending the outcome of the investigation. Among the police officers who fired were seven white police officers and one black officer. It was the first fatal mission for everyone.
The incident sparked protests against police brutality – protesters gathered outside Akron City Hall and Police Station. According to the American civil rights organization NAACP, it is a “blatant murder”. That wouldn’t happen to whites in America.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
