Isaiah Hutchinson
Isaiah Hutchinson, 23, was shot and killed by Austin police officers.
Investigators said the car Hutchinson was driving hit another car, causing a conflict between the drivers. After driving a few meters, Hutchinson got out of his car and headed towards the other driver.
According to the police department, Hutchinson pulled out a gun threatening another driver. Police said that as soon as Hutchinson saw approaching police officers, he got scared and fired several shots at them, they started shooting too. Hutchinson was injured. He returned to his car and tried to escape, but a few minutes later died from injuries.
In March 2021, Hutchinson’s family filed a lawsuit against the city and the police department, accusing them of using of excessive force and wrongful death. In August 2021, jury acquitted police officers.
MASS MEDIA ABOUT THE CASE:
“Regardless of whether Hutchinson had a gun, pointed a gun – at the guy shooting him, or police, the video posted by a witness shows him fleeing the scene out of the danger zone that law enforcement uses to justify shooting him,” Hutchinson’s family attorney said.
CBC Austin
“The officers didn’t approach the scene saying, ‘Austin Police Department — put your weapons down’ or anything like that. They just started shooting. They were approaching the situation from afar but also shooting at the same time,” a witness said.
Austin American Statesman
CASE STATUS:
The initiative group has requested the clarification from US President Joseph Biden and Attorney General Merrick Garland. The initiative group believes it is important to fight against police brutality and, if necessary, will provide legal and financial assistance to the family of the victim.