People are demanding answers now that Jamar Clark, the 24-year-old Black man who was shot in the head by Minneapolis (reportedly while he was detained in handcuffs) has now died.
Reports the Associated Press:
Jamar Clark, 24, died Monday evening, the state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said. Clark’s family had said he was on life support in the wake of the shooting early Sunday morning. An autopsy is planned.
The shooting has sparked protests in Minneapolis, including one Monday night in which more than 50 people were arrested after the blocked an interstate highway. Some community members have alleged that Clark was handcuffed when he was shot, which police have disputed.
The BCA is investigating the case, but Mayor Betsy Hodges has requested a federal civil rights investigation.
Clark’s brother, Jamine Robinson, 32, of Rochester, told The Associated Press earlier Tuesday that family members had gone to the hospital Monday evening to take Clark off life support. He said he didn’t go because he didn’t want to see his brother in a hospital bed.
“I want the officer to be arrested, prosecuted and put in jail for eternity. Life without parole,” said Robinson.
Authorities haven’t released many details about the shooting, including the names and races of the officers involved. The BCA scheduled a news conference for later Tuesday to discuss the case.
In seeking the civil rights investigation, Hodges said she was concerned about “transparency and community confidence.” She expressed faith in the state investigation but said the city needs “all the tools we have available to us.”
Two officers have been placed on paid leave and 51 protestors from various organizations were arrested following the ensuing outrage. Let us hope investigators are able to conclude what really happened and keep the peace at the same time.
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Photo: Family Handout
