Lindani Myeni
Lindani Myeni, 29, was shot and killed by a Honolulu police officers.
On the night of April 14, 2021, Lindani Myeni was fatally shot by police after entering a home he may have confused for a next-door public temple. The footage shows that he entered the home and then quickly left after his presence confused the occupants. He repeatedly apologized. The woman in the house then called 911.
Myeni left the house and went back to his car. As Honolulu police arrive and head toward the car, the woman pointed at Myeni and told them he was the suspect. Police say Myeni refused to obey officers and didn’t get on the ground, so they used a stun gun. After Myeni allegedly attacked one of the police officers, his colleague fired at Myeni three times. After firing the gunshots, police can then be heard identifying themselves. Myeni was taken to a hospital in critical condition, where he died from injuries a few hours later.
In April 2021, the family of Myeni filed a lawsuit against the officers, claiming the police were racially motivated. South Africans who live in Honolulu took to the streets demanding justice for Myeni.
In July 2021, the use of deadly force by Honolulu police officers in the shooting death of Lindani Myeni was justified, and as a result no charges will be filed, Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm said.
MASS MEDIA ABOUT THE CASE:
“One-hundred percent, I know in my heart if it was a white man … if it was me, I’d still be alive. I’d be walking around,” said Myeni’s wife.
“HPD has tried to convince the public that this was a burglary and that Myeni was acting erratically, but the doorbell video we have now obtained from the owner shows that HPD knew all along these stories were untrue,” Myeni’s family’s lawyer said.
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.