Violent clashes between police and demonstrators in Philadelphia erupted Monday night into the early hours of Tuesday after police fatally shot a 27-year-old Black man. Police reported that about 30 police officers were injured during the skirmishes, according to local media.
The man, identified by officials as Walter Wallace, was killed during a confrontation Monday afternoon in West Philadelphia.
Police officials have not released the names of the two officers who fired at Wallace, but they said they have been placed on desk duty pending an investigation.
The city’s mayor and police commissioner promised a full investigation in a joint statement about the incident.
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney said he watched bystander video, which shows parts of the altercation. He called it a “tragic incident and it presents difficult questions that must be answered.”
“I recognize that the video of the incident raises many questions,” Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw added. While visiting the scene of the shooting, Outlaw said she “heard and felt the anger of the community.” She gave assurances that any questions about what led to the shooting will be addressed in the investigation.
