(AllHipHop News) According to reports, anger over the deadly police shooting of 18-year-old Michael Brown has gone from peaceful protests, social media hashtags, and candlelight vigils to looting and vandalism. Brown, who was unarmed, was shot and killed by a police officer in Ferguson, Missouri on Saturday.
Brown and another man were stopped by the cop. Authorities claim Brown then got into a struggle inside a police vehicle with the officer over his firearm. Police say Brown was shot once inside the vehicle and then multiple times in the street.
However, witnesses of the incident say that Brown was shot as he held his hands in the air signifying that he was not resisting. The officer has been put on leave of absence pending an investigation.
Members of the Ferguson community demanded justice for Brown’s killing. Several nonviolent demonstrations sprouted up throughout the city, but some residents have turned to looting and destruction of property.
The unrest reportedly spread to neighboring towns. Heavily armed law enforcement personnel has been sent to the area.
Brown’s mother, Lesley McSpadden, has reportedly condemned the rioting stating the looting is disrespecting the memory of her son. The recent high school graduate was set to attend Vatterott College this fall.
Watch the ABC News report on Brown’s killing and footage from Ferguson below.
Getting the protestors to sit down. Put hands up in protest. #ferguson https://t.co/L5vABsluab
— Antonio French (@AntonioFrench) August 11, 2014
Police are moving in. https://t.co/QqlwEL2Ynr
— Antonio French (@AntonioFrench) August 11, 2014
SWAT outside Walgreens at W. Florisant and Chambers. pic.twitter.com/7oh9vLqiLv
— Antonio French (@AntonioFrench) August 11, 2014