Protests have erupted in Indianapolis, Indiana following the death of Dreasjon “Sean” Reed. Reed was killed on Wednesday evening after an unidentified police officer shot him. Initial police reports suggest that the officer attempted to stop a confrontation involving Reed by using his taser. When the taser was reportedly ineffective, the officer fired shots at Reed that ultimately led to his death.
According to police reports, the incident began when Deputy Chief Kendale Adams, who was driving an unmarked police vehicle, spotted a Toyota Corolla driving on the highway. Police reports suggest that the car was moving recklessly and nearly hit another car. Adams began to follow Reed and called for backup. Then, Chief Randal Taylor, who was also driving an unmarked police vehicle, joined the pursuit. From there, marked police vehicles joined the pursuit and Taylor and Adams left. After approximately 10 minutes, the chase was called off because authorities felt that the vehicle was moving at an unsafe speed. Later on, the car in question was spotted parked at a local business. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Assistant Chief Chris Bailey says that the alleged driver began running and the fatal confrontation ensued.
“Initial information indicates the officer deployed his taser,” the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department noted.
“It appears the taser was ineffective, and an exchange of gunfire between the driver and the officer followed,” law enforcement adds.
Reed’s father has reportedly denied all claims that his shot fired a gun at law enforcement. Moving forward, the Reed family is pushing for justice.
In the moments leading up to his death, Reed recorded his encounter with the unidentified officer on Facebook Live. At one point, a voice can seemingly be heard discussing Reed’s dying body.
“I think it’s going to be a closed casket, homie,” the person said.
These comments immediately sparked an uproar and protests throughout the city.
“Let me be clear, these comments are unacceptable and unbecoming of our police department,” Taylor told reporters.
Following his death, thousands across the country viewed the live video and showed their support for the Reed family. Most notably, Indianapolis native, Mike Epps showed his support for Reed and reportedly spoke to the family.
No charges have been filed in Reed’s death as of yet.
