The family of Christopher Ferguson, who was killed by police in a shootout in Brooklyn on Thursday, were joined by social justice advocate and lawyer Rev. Kevin McCall to call for justice.
Fatal Police Shooting
On Dec. 5 at around 3:30 p.m., Brooklyn officers responded to a ShotSpotter activation within the Whitman Houses public housing complex, located at 81 North Portland Ave., where a witness told police about the shooter in a car with an out-of-state license plate. Minutes later, police saw the car headed toward Fulton Street and Washington Avenue with a female driver, Ferguson as the passenger and a 3-year-old.
Chase and Shooting
The NYPD followed the car, reaching near the corner of Utica Avenue and Park Place, where police got out of the car and approached the vehicle. It was reported that Ferguson was attempting to get out of the car’s partially blocked passenger door while holding a handgun, which he then pointed at the cops.
Police fired at Ferguson 19 times, suffering multiple gunshot wounds throughout his body. Though life-saving measures were taken, Ferguson ultimately died of his injuries at the hospital.
Mother’s Plea
Yolanda Campbell, Ferguson’s mother, addressed the crowd gathered on Dec. 6 in Brooklyn, calling for the release of the body camera footage from the incident.
“What we see was an execution happened by the New York City Police Department. There’s so many conflicting stories that have been circulating about what happened yesterday. We demand to see the body camera footage,” said Campbell.
Community Response
The group, while yelling “No justice, no peace,” echoed Campbell’s statements, calling for answers. Rev. McCall that the incident was excessive.
“I don’t care what crime that Christopher did. 17 shots is excessive,” said McCall. “You aren’t allowed to chase in New York City. Now, under this administration, Eric Adams’ administration, the police decides to chase someone from almost a quarter of a mile, causing his demise.”
Conclusion
The tragic death of Christopher Ferguson highlights the ongoing concerns about police brutality and excessive force. The family’s call for justice and transparency is echoed by the community, as they demand answers and accountability. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial to ensure that the truth comes to light and that the NYPD takes concrete steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
FAQs
What happened during the police shooting?
Police responded to a ShotSpotter activation and followed a car with an out-of-state license plate, eventually approaching the vehicle. Ferguson was attempting to exit the car while holding a handgun, which he pointed at the cops. Police fired 19 times, causing multiple gunshot wounds that ultimately led to his death.
What is the family demanding?
The family is calling for the release of the body camera footage from the incident and demanding justice. They believe that the police action was excessive and unlawful.
What is Rev. McCall’s position on the incident?
Rev. McCall believes that the shooting was excessive and that the police should not have chased Ferguson from almost a quarter of a mile, ultimately causing his demise. He also stated that 17 shots is excessive, regardless of Ferguson’s actions.
