November 7th, 2024

Akron Authorities Release Disturbing BodyCam of Shooting of Black DoorDash Driver

The lawyer for the 25-year-old’s family called it an execution, telling media members that police fired 90 shots, hitting the young man “60 to 80 times.”

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

Authorities on Sunday released disturbing bodycam footage of Jayland Walker, an unarmed Black DoorDash delivery driver with no criminal record shot dozens of times by Akron Police Officers.

The lawyer for the 25-year-old’s family called it an execution, telling media members that police fired 90 shots, hitting the young man “60 to 80 times.”

As the video rolls, several officers are seen approaching Walker’s vehicle with their guns drawn.
Police Chief Stephen Mylett claimed Walker had a ski mask on, reached toward his waist during a foot chase, and turned toward pursuing police officers.
He claimed that’s when officers opened fire. Mylett said authorities found a weapon in Walker’s car, but it wasn’t clear if he discharged the gun.

He admitted that Walker didn’t exit the car with a gun.

While handcuffed and bleeding profusely from his wounds, Mylett claimed officers attempted to provide lifesaving help for Walker.

Officials placed the eight directly involved in the shooting on administrative leave.
“It was difficult to watch and shocking,” Mylett stated. “I’m not going to pass judgment.:

The chief and Akron Mayor Daniel Horrigan commended Walker’s family for calling for peaceful demonstrations.

“The video is heartbreaking, and it’s hard to take in,” Horrigan said.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, and the FBI field office in Akron issued joint statements noting that they were “closely monitoring and reviewing the circumstances.”

“The FBI continues to coordinate with state and local partners to provide resources and specialized skills,” officials wrote in the statement.

“If the evidence reveals potential violations of federal criminal statutes, the Justice Department will take appropriate action.”

To quell tensions, Horrigan announced the cancelation of Akron’s Fourth of July Festival.
Walker’s family attorney Bobby DiCello called for a federal investigation.

“This is brutal,” DiCello asserted. “It’s going to stir up some passion. It’s going to make people uneasy.”
Former Democratic Ohio Congresswoman Nina Turner told her more than 534,000 Twitter followers that the DOJ must investigate.

“Jayland was unarmed and running away when police opened fire, firing 90 shots, hitting him 60,” Turner wrote as she posted the bodycam video. “The Department of Justice needs to step in to investigate immediately.”
Turner noted that officers were reckless.

“The cop almost shot two other cops,” she tweeted. “Just absolute recklessness.”
Turner then compared the incident to another Ohio shooting.

“This is like Cleveland all over again, with the 137 shots fired at Timothy Russell and Malissa Williams,” Turner recalled. “Jayland’s family is urging protestors to remain peaceful. Something has to change.”

In November 2012, more than 60 Cleveland Police officers pursued a vehicle driven by Russell and Williams, whom authorities claimed had fired on them – it turned out their car simply suffered a backfire.

The 23-mile chase ended when officers surrounded the vehicle and opened fire, killing the unarmed African American couple in the middle school parking lot.

A jury later acquitted two officers charged with manslaughter. Eventually, six Cleveland officers were fired for their actions.

Walker’s family said they are wary of their deceased loved one becoming demonized.
“They want to make him a masked monster,” DiCello stated. “I’m glad the police chief made one thing clear – he was unarmed.”

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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