YEO Network Statement on Police Killing of Antwon Rose

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

For more information, contact: Young Elected Officials Network (202) 467-2347 mbatchelor@pfaw.org

YEO Network Statement on Police Killing of Antwon Rose

WASHINGTON, DC (June 22, 2018) – On June 19th, 17-year-old Antwon Rose was shot three times and killed by an East Pittsburgh Police officer in Pittsburgh, PA. Antwon, who was unarmed, fled during a traffic stop from a vehicle in which he was the passenger. The driver of the vehicle he occupied has since been released from police custody. According to national data collected by The Washington Post, Antwon was the 10th unarmed Black American killed by police officers this year. He was the 5th American under the age of 18 to be killed by police this year.

Antwon died hours after members of the Young Elected Officials Network National Black Caucus and partners from around the country observed the celebration of Juneteenth by calling for an end to police violence in Black communities and more accountability for unchecked police misconduct. Astonishingly, Antwon was shot by an officer who had been sworn into the force that same day.

While the facts associated with the case are still under review, there is one thing abundantly clear: there was no justification for the use of deadly force on Antwon, who was unarmed, running away and posed no immediate threat to officers or others.

Antwon’s family and community are just one of countless others reeling from the loss of loved ones killed unjustifiably by those who are charged with protecting them. The loss of this Woodland Hills High School student who was described as “highly promising” with a “million-dollar smile” is yet another byproduct of the unwillingness of local, state and national leaders to protect marginalized communities from the systemic barriers and biases that lead to these tragic incidents.

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Correction: In an earlier version of this release, it was stated that Antwon Rose was killed by Allegheny County Police. Antwon Rose was killed by an East Pittsburgh Police officer. Allegheny County Police have since taken over the investigation.