The FBI has been asked to help investigate a white police officer’s fatal shooting of an unarmed black teenager in Texas. A vigil has been held for
ADVERTISEMENTThe FBI has been asked to help investigate a white police officer’s fatal shooting of an unarmed black teenager in Texas.
A vigil has been held for 19-year-old college football player Christian Taylor, who was suspected of driving a vehicle through the window of a car dealership in Arlington.
He was shot by police officer Brad Miller, 49, who is still undergoing training with the department, police said.
As well as taking part in the probe, the FBI will review investigative work and findings.
“It has occurred as our nation has been wrestling with the topics of social injustice, inequalities, racism and police misconduct,” said Will Johnson, Arlington police department chief.
“We recognise the importance of these topics, the impact these issues have on communities throughout our nation and we pledge to act in a transparent manner.”
Friday’s shooting came just days before the one-year anniversary of the police shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson – another unarmed black teenager.
His killing sparked local rioting and a national debate over race and police brutality.
Officer Darren Wilson, who is white, was cleared of all criminal charges in the shooting.