AKRON, Ohio — The attorneys for Jayland Walker and his family spoke following his funeral service and announced that his police shooting death is now getting international attention from the United Nations.
Attorneys for the Walker family say the "United Nations International Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in the context of Law Enforcement" will provide investigators to look into what happened to Walker in Akron.
Attorney Bobby DiCello explained the role of the United Nations investigators. He also said the group would likely start its review after the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation concludes its report on the case.
"If you don't know what the mechanism does, the mechanism was set up following the death of George Floyd. The mechanism has independent nation and worldwide experts who will be sending recommendations to the government, both at the federal and state level to ensure that this kind of violence visited upon ordinary Black Americans ceases," DiCello said.
Family and lawyers said that while today was a day to remember Walker, they are also calling on the city to issue a public apology. There have been private apologies from city leaders, but the family believes the time has come to do that publicly.
It was back on June 27 when Walker was shot around 60 times by Akron police following a chase. His death has resulted in multiple protests and calls for change over the past two weeks.
Attorneys and Walker's relatives believe the eight officers who fired shots need to be held accountable.
BCI continues to investigate, and we're told some of interviews with officers have been taking place.
Jayland Walker's cousin, Roddray Walker, Jr. also spoke.
"How do I respond? I'm tired of sitting on the sidelines being a spectator. I just don't know where to turn to. That's why I'm here speaking on behalf of his name and family. We're going to get through this, but we need to see changes,” Walker Jr. said.
Akron police and the mayor’s office did not hold a daily briefing today out of respect for Walker's family.
There are several prayer vigils scheduled at Akron Community Centers beginning at 6 p.m. tonight.
Follow the latest coverage of the shooting and its aftermath here.
