Tension remains over black man’s killing
LOS ANGELES — A local activist attending a peaceful vigil for Stephon Clark, an unarmed black man killed by police on March 18, was struck by a sheriff’s vehicle on Saturday night, causing chaos in the demonstration at one point.
The scene happening in south of downtown Sacramento is part of the days-long protests against Clark’s killing. An autopsy report revealed the victim was shot eight times, mostly in his back.
The woman injured at the vigil is identified as Wanda Cleveland and was released from hospital early on Sunday morning, according to The Sacramento Bee. She said the patrol vehicle was accelerating and “never even stopped” before hitting her.
“It was a hit and run,” she was quoted by The Sacramento Bee as saying. “It’s disregard for human life.”
A video from ABC10 shows that a group of people carrying signs of protest surrounded a Sacramento County sheriff police cruiser, and a voice on megaphone said “Back away from my vehicle” four times.
Sacramento County Sheriff ’s Department said the collision happened at “slow speeds” after protesters were “yelling while pounding and kicking the vehicles’ exterior”. The incident is under investigation.
Clark’s death has triggered widespread anger, as protesters stopped the flow of traffic on an interstate highway, and blocked thousands from entering into a basketball game.
Clark’s fiancee, Salena Manni, stood on stage with his two young sons for the gathering on Saturday organized by former NBA player Matt Barnes, who pledged to create a scholarship fund for the children of black men killed by police.
Barnes amplified calls for charges against the two officers who are on administrative leave. “It’s more than color — it comes down to right and wrong,” he said. “You’re trying to tell me I can kill someone and get a paid vacation?”