The following are comments from city officials during a press conference held in connection with the Officer Involved Shooting on 11/22/2014
Mayor Frank G. Jackson: “There is nothing I can say that will provide any type of relief or healing to the family of twelve year old Tamir Rice who tragically lost his life. Regardless of the facts of this case, we must remember that it was a child who was killed and our investigation will respect the wishes of that child’s family as it unfolds. The Division of Police will provide updates as they are available.”
Chief of Police, Calvin D. Williams: “First and most importantly, I would like to offer my sincerest condolences to the family of Tamir Rice. I have personally reached out to the family and offered them an opportunity to view the video evidence in connection with the incident from this past Saturday. The family has declined that opportunity; however, their representatives did agree to participate and pass-on any necessary information. We will continue to work with the family and their representatives as the investigation progresses. From this tragedy, we can gain knowledge. We can be proactive and diligent in teaching our children about guns and the dangers of playing with firearms, whether they are real or fake. Guns are not toys and the replica in this instance was indistinguishable from that of a real firearm.”
Officer Involved Shooting – Update
On Saturday, November 23, 2014, our officers were involved in a deadly force incident with a young man at Cudell Recreation Center. Yesterday, in spite of all of our prayers, at approximately 2:30 am, it was learned that he passed away at MetroHealth Medical Center.
A tragedy like this affects our entire community. Our officers, at times, are required to make critical decisions in a split second, and this was one of those times. From this tragedy, we can gain knowledge. We can be proactive and diligent in teaching our children about guns and the dangers of playing with firearms, whether they are real or fake. Guns are not toys and the replica in this instance was indistinguishable from a real firearm. We must also make sure that our children know that the police are here to help, part of the community.
Moving Forward:
The officers involved in this incident have been placed on paid administrative leave, as is per our police protocol. During that time, the investigation will continue. We will work to process evidence and provide regular and transparent updates. Upon completion of the investigation by the Use of Deadly Force Investigation Team, the matter will be turned over to the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office for additional investigation.
Cleveland Division of Police 