March 20, 2017
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Human Rights Commission condemns Arlington police shooting of 17 year old, stands with family,urges independent civilian investigation.
For information contact:
Marcel Baugh
marcel.baugh13@gmail.com
Pauline Alvarado
paulinealvarado@gmail.com
Jeremy Wood
jeremywood10@gmail.com
SEATTLE –We, the Seattle Human Rights Commission (the Commission), are saddened to address yet another concerning use of deadly force by local police. On February 14, Arlington police shot a 17-year-old high school student four times after reporting to an altercation between the teen and a romantic partner. Eyewitnesses report that, while a knife was found at the scene,the teen was not armed. She had retreated from police towards her vehicle. Police indicate that she appeared suicidal. They used a taser on the teen before opening fire, hitting her in the chest and groin. The shooting rendered her unconscious and she was rushed to medical care. Her family is devastated. The officers involved are currently on paid administrative leave—seen by some as questionable.
Such tragedies occur too often. Police officers throughout our state and country have too often failed to effectively deescalate stressful situations. The Commission demands transparency in the release of details that led multiple officers to fire upon a 17 year old. And we urge a separate investigation by independent civilian auditors, in addition to that underway by neighboring law enforcement agencies. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of this teen, who wish to remain anonymous, and the Arlington community, and we ask for a swift, transparent, and ethical resolution in this matter.