Unrest in Akron After Deadly Police Shooting of Jayland Walker
Hundreds Protest, Officers Involved Placed on Leave
Eight Ohio police officers are now on paid administrative leave following the fatal shooting of Jayland Walker, a 25-year-old Black man.
AKRON, Ohio (CNN) - Hundreds of mourners gathered in Akron, Ohio, on Wednesday for the funeral of Jayland Walker, who was shot and killed by eight police officers on June 27th. The shooting has sparked protests and calls for accountability from the community.
According to police, Walker led officers on a vehicle and foot chase after they attempted to stop him for a traffic violation. During the chase, Walker fired a gun from his vehicle, striking an officer in the head. The officers then pursued Walker on foot, and an altercation ensued in which they fired 90 rounds, striking Walker multiple times.
The officers involved in the shooting have been placed on paid administrative leave, and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is conducting an independent investigation into the incident. Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan has called for transparency and accountability, saying that "the community deserves answers."
Walker's death has reignited concerns about police brutality and racial profiling in Akron and across the country. Protesters have taken to the streets in Akron for several nights, demanding justice for Walker and calling for reforms to the police department.
The funeral service for Walker was held at the E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall in downtown Akron. Hundreds of mourners filled the theater, many wearing shirts with Walker's photo or the slogan "Justice for Jayland." The service included speeches from Walker's family, friends, and community leaders, as well as a performance by the Akron Symphony Orchestra.
Walker's death is the latest in a series of fatal shootings of Black men by police in recent years. The incidents have sparked widespread protests and calls for police reform across the country.
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