WARNING: The following story contains graphic images that may be unsuitable for some viewers. Discretion is advised.
In an effort to “dispel inaccurate information” about Saturday’s deadly police involved shooting, Chicago police released body cam footage of the confrontation and the shooting.
The shooting, which claimed the life of 37-year-old Harith Augustus, sparked immediate controversy as protesters clashed with police in the aftermath of the incident.
Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson called the situation “tragic,” and said the decision to release the video was made in the interest of transparency.
“I just think that in terms of transparency it’s good to get it out as soon as you can,” he said. “Respect the process. Don’t judge things on your emotions. Let facts guide your decision.”
The graphic video shows Augustus being confronted by officers, who say that he was questioned because he appeared to be carrying a gun. After getting away from officers, Augustus is seen in the video reaching for his weapon when officers open fire.
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“The decision to use legal force happens in a matter of seconds,” Johnson said. “You know these things happen in a split second, and they don’t have the luxury of looking at video later.”
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability is looking into the shooting, and audio of the incident will be released at a later date.
Until then, Johnson called for calm on both sides of the discussion, and asked residents to wait until all the facts are revealed before jumping to judgment in the case.
“I promise that the CPD will be transparent,” he said. “We can do better as a city. Everything we do (goes toward) building a safer and stronger Chicago.”
