On June 12, 2020, a black man named Rayshard Brooks was fatally shot by Atlanta police officer Garrett Rolfe in a Wendy’s parking lot. The incident sparked nationwide protests against police brutality and racial injustice, and three suspects have since been charged with murder in connection to Brooks’ death.
Brooks, a 27-year-old father of four, had fallen asleep in his car in the Wendy’s drive-thru when police were called to the scene. After a brief conversation with officers, Brooks attempted to flee on foot and was shot twice in the back by Rolfe. He later died at a nearby hospital.
The shooting was captured on video and quickly went viral, leading to widespread outrage and calls for justice. The Atlanta Police Department swiftly fired Rolfe and another officer involved in the incident, Devin Brosnan.
In the weeks following Brooks’ death, investigators worked to identify and apprehend the suspects responsible for his killing. On June 17, Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard announced charges against Rolfe, including felony murder, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and violation of oath by a public officer. Brosnan was charged with aggravated assault and violation of oath.
In addition to the two officers, a third suspect, 28-year-old Natalie White, was also charged with felony murder and aggravated assault in connection to Brooks’ death. White is believed to have been with Brooks at the time of the shooting and may have been involved in a struggle with officers prior to the fatal shots being fired.
The charges against the three suspects have been met with mixed reactions. Some have praised the swift action taken by law enforcement officials to hold those responsible for Brooks’ death accountable. Others have criticized the charges as excessive, arguing that the officers were acting in self-defense and that White should not be held responsible for the actions of the police.
Regardless of one’s opinion on the charges, the death of Rayshard Brooks serves as a tragic reminder of the ongoing issue of police brutality and racial injustice in America. As the nation continues to grapple with these issues, it is important that we work towards meaningful change and justice for all victims of police violence.
