“It’s not right:”, Father of Teen Involved in Shooting Disputes Officer’s Version of Events
Father Speaks Out and Disputes Officer’s Version of the Events
The father of a 16-year-old boy who was injured in a shooting involving Chicago police on Thursday is speaking out and disputing the officer’s version of the events. According to Scott Gracey, his son, Marcus Gracey, was complying with the police when the officer attempted to take the gun from his waistband. However, the officer reported that Marcus had a gun in his waistband, which accidentally went off, and then the officer tried to disarm him.
The Incident Unfolds
The shooting occurred in the 5600 block of South Shields Avenue in the Englewood neighborhood on Thursday evening. The Chicago police superintendent, Larry Snelling, reported that police officers noticed a gun in Marcus’ waistband during an investigatory stop, which resulted in the accident.
Weapons Charges Pending
According to the officials, the 16-year-old was shot in the groin, and the officers were pelted in the leg. The family stated that they were eager to know more about the condition of their son but were initially denied access.
Family Feels Let Down
Scott Gracey and his wife, Tania Hernandez, expressed feelings of dismay and frustration in the media. They argued that Marcus was not handled fairly by the police during the investigatory stop, stating, “I wouldn’t categorize this as wrestling. What our officers did, they were attempting to disarm someone who was armed with a handgun”.
Cellphone Video Emerges
Cellphone footage obtained by WGN-TV showed the immediate aftermath of the incident. The teenager’s father claimed that paramedics were slow to arrive, with his son laying on the floor for more than 20 minutes without medical treatment.
Case Under Investigation
The matter is now under the purview of the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA), hence, Chicago police were unwilling to make any comments or provide a response to claims made. The Fraternal Order of Police had not replied to WGN-TV for comment as well.
Teen’s Family Seeks Transparency
WGN-TV reached out to the Family of Marcus but was informed that they’re not interested in speaking before they gain more information or answers regarding the incident from the relevant authorities.
The recent shooting in Chicago involving Chicago police raises questions about policing methods, gun control and transparency in the handling of these sensitive situations. There are legitimate concerns about this incident as it has once again placed the spotlight on the tensions between law enforcement and minority communities. Efforts will be made in the near future to secure an answer from the respective authorities.
