By Michelle Alles
Philadelphia, USA (CWBN)_ Hundreds of protesters in Philadelphia demand racial justice after police fatally shot an African American man.
27-year-old Walter Wallace was killed during a confrontation with police in West Philadelphia. His family has said he suffered from bipolar disorder and was in crisis during the time of the shooting. The city’s mayor and police commissioner have promised a full investigation into the incident.
Following the incident, the city saw violent clashes between police and demonstrators, with some 30 police officers reportedly injured in the first night of protests. Tuesday night saw violence and looting, leading to dozens of arrests and the officers’ injuries, most the result of thrown objects. One officer was in hospital with a broken leg and other injuries after being struck by a pickup truck. Police urged residents in certain districts to stay inside.
Police officials have not released the names of the two officers who fired at Wallace, but said the officers have been placed on desk duty pending an investigation.
While Wallace’s family has stated that the police should have had less lethal options, they have also requested that protesters keep their demonstrations peaceful to respect his memory.
