Shooting Incident Impacts Police Credibility
TORONTO – Toronto Chief of Police Blair was quick to come out and get the message to the public in the shooting incident that saw a Toronto Police Officer shoot and kill a young man. Sammy Yatin was onboard a streetcar, armed with a three inch knife. He was ordered by the officers repeatedly to drop the knife. Yatin apparently did not drop the knife, and an officer opened fire and shot nine times, killing the young man.
The Youtube video of the Toronto Shooting Incident has gathered many comments, and the story is calling into question the credibility of Police in Toronto. A vigil last night saw many people getting very emotional, and some expressing their anger at police.
Up to 1000 people, many chanting “We want justice” occupied the street where the shooting happened. The impact on the Toronto Police in the community is mounting.
Toronto Chief of Police Blair
“I would like to begin by expressing my very sincere condolences to the family and friends of the young man that was killed,” said Chief Blair. “I have, this morning, asked Deputy Chief Mike Federico to reach out to the family of the deceased, to express our condolences and sympathy and to offer whatever support we are able to provide. As a father, I can only imagine their terrible grief and their need for answers. We will commit to doing our best to ensure that those answers are provided”.
“I would also like to speak to some of the concerns that have been raised with respect to this incident. Like many members of the public, I have viewed the video of this incident. I am aware of the very serious concerns that the public has. I know that people are seeking answers as to what occurred, why it happened and if anything could have been done to prevent the tragic death of this young man. I am also seeking the answers to these important questions”.
Chief Speaks to Media
The incident has been debated Internet wide. An enhanced video of the event, captured on a smartphone camera has been seen over 272,000 times.
Youtube Video Captures Shooting
The officer involved in the shooting has been suspended, with pay, following the incident.
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is investigating
The public however is demanding answers which the controversy over the shooting death of Sammy Yatin has generated.
Chief Blair stated, “
I am very aware that the public is very concerned about this tragic event. They have every right to be concerned. I recognize that there is a need for answers and that the public quite rightfully expects that this matter will be thoroughly investigated. I want to assure you that this will be done. The public also has a right to demand that the Toronto Police Service examine the conduct of its officers and to ensure that its training and procedures are both appropriate and followed. This will be done.”
“Addressing the concerns of the public and the deceased young man’s family is our highest priority. We will act as quickly as circumstances and the law allow,” continued Chief Blair.
Related articles
