Family of Pregnant Woman Slain By Ohio Cop On Video Demands His Arrest

The family of a pregnant Black woman killed in Columbus, Ohio, is seeking justice for her death. Video footage recently disclosed to the public revealed that she was shot dead in her car by a local police officer.

Ta’Kiya Young was 21 years old when she was fatally shot by a member of Columbus’ law enforcement in a moment of what her family deems a “gross misuse of power and authority.” Body camera video of the incident was released over a week later, which the Young family’s attorney believes is another indicator that her case is being disregarded.

The lawyer, Sean Walton, told The Associated Press the family is “heartbroken” over the loss of Ta’Kiya and her unborn child.

“The video did nothing but confirm their fears that Ta’Kiya was murdered unjustifiably … and it was just heartbreaking for them to see Ta’Kiya having her life taken away under such ridiculous circumstances,” said Walton.

The Young family remains adamant that killing the expectant mother was unnecessary after she was originally stopped under the suspicion that she stole from a local grocery store. Two cops on the scene then demanded that she get out of the car, which she refused. The situation escalated, with one shooting her as she moved her car.

The officer who pulled the trigger is currently on paid administrative leave as the investigation unfolds, which is standard procedure in such cases. However, the other officer at the scene is still on active duty. No information regarding the race of either officer has been officially released.

Ta’Kiya’s family, however, is still reeling from the abrupt loss.

“More than anything, there was … a sense of just devastation, to know that this power system, these police officers, could stop her and so quickly take her life for no justifiable reason,” their lawyer explained further.

Ohio Police have garnered attention for multiple cases of alleged police brutality against its Black residents. All eyes are now on the state’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation to see what solutions they offer to provide justice.