8 Akron, Ohio, officers on leave following killing of Black motorist

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
2 Jul 2022 09:31

Large trucks and snow plows are relocated downtown overnight as the city braces for protests in the aftermath of Jayland Walker's death.

25-yera-old Jayland Walker (WKYC)

After police fatally shot a Black motorist, eight Ohio officers were placed on paid administrative leave, and Akron city leaders braced for protests, officials said Friday.

Snow plows and other huge trucks were relocated downtown overnight in preparation for large protests following the police shooting of 25-year-old Jayland Walker.

"We are planning for a possible gathering for demonstrations and ensuring continuity of services are provided to the entire community, including areas in and around downtown," Akron police Lt. Michael Miller, a department spokesperson, told NBC News in a statement on Friday. "We are utilizing various tools and such in the event barricades are needed."

With the potential of unrest in Akron, snow plows are being used as street barriers surrounding the area of the Akron Police Department. This in the wake of the shooting death of 25 year old Jayland Walker. I have details this morning on @wkyc pic.twitter.com/cnre5r8Vfm
— Austin Love (@AustinLoveTV) July 1, 2022

The horrific encounter has also forced Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan to cancel a Fourth of July event, stating that now "is not the time for a city-led celebration."

What happened? A traffic violation, a chase, and gunfire

The deadly incident occurred early Monday morning when authorities attempted to stop Walker for an unspecified traffic violation, according to officials.

Police tried to pull over Jayland Walker, a 25-year-old DoorDash driver, for a traffic infraction early Monday, authorities said. The Akron Police Department said that during the pursuit, Walker fired a gun from outside the vehicle — a claim that Walker’s family has refuted.

As he kept driving away from police, Walker jumped out of his vehicle and was chased by officers on foot, according to authorities. It is unclear why Walker fled police, as he had no criminal record, Bobby DiCello, one of the family’s attorneys, told The Washington Post.

"Actions by the suspect caused the officers to perceive he posed a deadly threat to them," police claimed. "In response to this threat, officers discharged their firearms, striking the suspect." Walker was pronounced dead on the scene.

“Per departmental procedure, the officers involved have been placed on paid administrative leave,” city spokesperson Stephanie Marsh said in a statement to NBC News.

Protesters in Akron

A large crowd gathered outside the Akron Police Department late Thursday morning to demand justice for Jayland Walker, 25. The demonstration comes just a few days after Walker was shot and killed by police during a nighttime chase.

Autopsy records show that eight officers fired more than 90 rounds at Walker, with more than 60 striking his body, DiCello told The Post. The account was corroborated by WKYC, the first to report on the number of gunshots fired.

“There are wounds on all sides and parts of his body,” DiCello said.

3News Investigates also saw autopsy data on Wednesday, which included over 150 photographs of Walker's wounds and approximately 60 photos of bullet fragments. The majority of Walker's wounds were in the front of his body. From his face to his lower legs, wounds could be observed.

AKRON Protesters in Akron demand justice in the death of Jayland Walker by police. "I shouldn't have to battle for freedom and justice," one protester said.