Protestors took to Akron streets on Sunday amid the release of bodycam footage showing Jayland Walker‘s death. Protests have been ongoing since news broke of yet another Black man dying at the hands of police. As previously reported, Jayland died from at least 60 gunshot wounds inflicted by at least eight Akron police officers. Akron Police Chief Stephen Mylett confirmed Jayland was unarmed when officers sprayed more than 90 shots in his direction during a foot chase.
The shooting took place a week ago, on Monday, June 27. Police attempted to stop Jayland for supposed traffic and equipment violations. However, Jayland led officers on a 4-6 minute car chase. Police said about 40 seconds after Jayland drove away, “a sound consistent with a gunshot” and a flash came from his car. Given the alleged optics, police say they believed Jayland had fired in their direction.
“That changes the whole nature of the traffic stop,” the police chief said on Sunday. “IT went from being a routine traffic stop, to now a public safety issue. And then the pursuit continued.”
A look at the Initial crowd marching through downtown Akron after police released officer worn body camera showing the death of 25-year-old Jayland Walker pic.twitter.com/RLcpmbWuQQ
— Clay LePard (@ClayLePard) July 3, 2022
Bodycam Footage Shows Officers Firing At Jayland More Than 90 Times
According to the bodycam footage, Jayland pulled over and exited the driver’s side but climbed back in when an officer shouted to see his hands. The car slowly moved forward before he left through the passenger side and attempted to flee on foot for about 10 seconds.
According to CNN, the released video contains clips from body cameras worn by 13 officers at the scene. During the chase, Jayland stopped and turned towards the fleet of officers yelling for him to stop and running in his direction. Officers say they believed Jayland was “motioning and moving into a firing position.” So, the officers reacted by firing rounds on rounds in Jayland’s direction.
The shots didn’t end until after one officer yelled “cease fire” at least three times. Additionally, the blurred footage shows Jayland on the ground as officers continue pumping bullets in his direction. According to the Beacon Journal, Jayland sustained wounds to the face, torso, and upper leg. Additionally, the medical examiner who arrived on the scene following the shooting found Jayland on his back and handcuffed–even while riddled with bullets.
The police chief confirmed the direct involvement of at least eight officers in the shooting. Seven officers identify as white, while one identifies as Black, per The New York Post. The department says none have been involved in fatal shootings during their one to six years on the force.
Investigations Underway As Jayland’s Family Calls For Peace
Officers later found a handgun, loaded magazine, and apparent wedding ring on the driver’s seat of Jayland’s car. A casing seemingly consistent with the gun was also later found in the area.
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation has launched an investigation. Meanwhile, Akron police are also conducting an internal investigation. On Friday, news broke that multiple officers involved were placed on paid administrative leave.
During a news conference following the footage release, Jayland’s family called for justice through due process. Family attorneys said they want answers but urge the public to “give peace, give dignity, and give justice a chance–for Jayland.”
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