Just a few weeks ago, Daunte Wright was brutally shot by a police officer. This sparked controversy all over the United States between different groups. Daunte Wright had just become a teenage father to a young boy two years prior. On Sunday, he was fatally shot in the Minneapolis suburbs of Brooklyn Center. Police claim that this incident was an “accidental discharge” that occurred as the police tried to arrest him.
According to AP News, “The city’s police chief, who resigned Tuesday, said he believed the officer who shot Wright, Kim Potter, meant to use her Taser on him but instead shot him with her gun. A prosecutor on Wednesday charged Potter, who also resigned, with second-degree manslaughter.” Wright was being hunted down after being absent in court on charges that he fled from police with a gun in his possession without a sufficient permit in June 2020.
Image Credit: Ben Crump Law
Wright was just 20 years of age and was getting into his car to drive away when police shot him, and Wright was pronounced dead moments later. His death quickly caused anger and indignation among millions of Americans, with protests beginning soon after. This isn’t the only time something like this has happened in the suburbs of Minneapolis. George Floyd died last year due to an officer encounter. On Tuesday, Derek Chauvin was convicted of his murder and was pronounced guilty of all charges.
President Biden recently spoke on the issue this past Monday. He addressed the shooting and everything that followed from the White House. Spectrum News states, “Question is: Was it an accident or intentional? That remains to be determined,” Biden said, adding: “In the meantime, I want to make it clear again: there is absolutely no justification—none—for looting. No justification for violence. Peaceful protest? Understandable.” He was quick to add that his prayers are with the Wright’s and understands all the pain and grief that the black community is going through at the moment. Although this is true, he stated that it “does not justify violence”. He continues to call upon “peace and calm”.
Currently, the officer at hand has been placed on administrative leave due to her actions. She is a senior officer who has been in the police force for approximately 26 years. Peaceful protests continue to bring Daunte Wright justice. The controversy of whether the officer meant to tase Wright is still up to debate, and further investigation is said to be done in the days to come. More information will be available as the investigation unfolds.
There are many ways YOU can help Daunte Wright and his family. Don’t forget that Wright has a two-year-old son with a mother who needs your help. Below are ways that you can make a difference. The minor things have the most significant impact.
Donate to his GoFundMe https://www.gofundme.com/f/dauntewright
Donate supplies to his wife and son. See https://www.instagram.com/p/CNoVde2n8m9/ for more information on diaper sizes, baby clothing, etc.
Demand your local officials to take action against police officials. Anything will spark change.