Aussie killed by cops in US
Heartbroken family seek answers in wake of shooting
AN Australian woman living in the United States has been shot dead by the police she had telephoned for help.
Justine Damond, 40, was just weeks away from getting married.
Devastated family and friends have demanded a federal investigation into the weekend police shooting in Minnesota, in the midwest.
Ms Damond, who was also known by the surname Ruszczyk but had adopted her fiance’s name, phoned for help on Saturday night after hearing “a possible assault” in a lane outside her home in southwest Minneapolis.
She was wearing her pyjamas when fatally struck by at least one bullet while in her driveway about 11.30pm.
The two police officers involved were immediately put on administrative leave as the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension investigated.
It is believed the police officers’ body cameras were not turned on.
Zach Damond, the son of Ms Damond’s fiance, posted a poignant video about his “best friend” who had previously spoken out about America’s gun culture.
“I just know she heard a sound in the alley so then she called the police, and the cops showed up. She probably thought something bad was happening and then next thing I know they take my best friend’s life,” he said.
“Basically my mum’s dead because a police officer shot her for reasons I don’t know. America sucks.”
A crowd of more than 100 gathered at a vigil yesterday to remember the corporate speaker and meditation teacher, who moved from Sydney’s northern beaches three years ago.
“This woman was a beautiful light. She was a healer, she was loved, she should be alive. She should still be here,” said neighbour Bethany Bradley.
Her fiance, Don Damond, the vice-president of Little Six Casino, had been away on business and arrived home yesterday.
Hannah, 21, who said she was a friend of Zach’s, told the Star Tribune newspaper: “She was such a kind woman.
“She took me in when I was in a tough situation and helped me with whatever I needed,” she said.
Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges also questioned why the officers’ cameras weren’t filming and vowed to get answers on behalf of Damond.
“As mayor of our city, a wife, and a grandmother, I am heartsick and deeply disturbed by what occurred last night,” Mayor Hodges said.
‘There are still many questions about what took place ... I am asking the BCA to release as much information, as quickly as they are able to.”