Unarmed Alabama man’s death ruled a homicide after police officer kneeled on his neck – CBS News

Key Takeaways:

• Death Ruled a Homicide: The coroner has officially ruled the death as a homicide, emphasizing the seriousness of the incident.
• Police Officer Kneeled on Neck: The unarmed man died after an officer kneeled on his neck, a method of restraint that has been widely criticized.
• Family Demands Justice and Arrests: The family is actively seeking justice, calling for the arrest of the Irondale police officers involved.
• Comparison to George Floyd’s Death: The incident is being compared to the death of George Floyd, highlighting ongoing concerns over police use of force.
• Body Camera Footage Reviewed: The family has viewed body camera footage, which has fueled their calls for accountability.

A Tragic Death in Alabama Sparks Demands for Justice

The death of an unarmed Alabama man has been ruled a homicide after a police officer kneeled on his neck, according to recent reports. The incident has prompted the man’s family to call for justice and the arrest of the involved Irondale police officers.

Details of the Incident

While specific details surrounding the event remain limited, it has been confirmed that the man died after a police officer applied pressure to his neck by kneeling on it. This method of restraint has come under scrutiny in recent years due to its potential to cause serious harm or death.

Family’s Response and Demands

The family of the deceased, identified as Phillip Reeder, is demanding justice. “We want the officers responsible to be held accountable,” a family spokesperson stated. They compare Reeder’s death to that of George Floyd, whose death in 2020 under similar circumstances sparked nationwide protests and a global conversation about police brutality.

Body Camera Footage Reviewed

After viewing the body camera footage of the incident, the family asserts that the actions of the officers were unjustified. The footage, they believe, provides clear evidence supporting the coroner’s ruling of homicide.

Media Coverage and Public Reaction

Multiple news outlets, including CBS News, AL.com, WBMA, Yahoo Home, and the Opelika-Auburn News, have reported on the incident. The widespread media coverage underscores the gravity of the situation and reflects growing public concern over police practices.

Context of Police Use of Force

The incident adds to a troubling pattern of deaths involving law enforcement officers using potentially lethal restraint methods. Comparisons to George Floyd highlight the ongoing issues surrounding police use of force, particularly in minority communities.

Calls for Accountability

The family’s demands echo a broader call for transparency and reform within law enforcement agencies. Advocacy groups are likely to join in pressing for a thorough investigation and meaningful changes to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Conclusion

As the investigation continues, the family of Phillip Reeder seeks not only justice for their loved one but also systemic changes to ensure such an incident does not happen again. The Irondale Police Department has yet to release a detailed statement regarding the officers’ actions or any impending disciplinary measures.