Justin Timberlake demands systemic change following the death of Rayshard Brooks
Justin Timberlake took to Instagram to express his outrage over the death of Rayshard Brooks, a black man killed by police in Atlanta on Friday.
The singer shared a photo of Brooks, a 27-year-old father of three girls, holding his newborn daughter.
"As a dad, this photo hurts," Timberlake wrote. "#RayshardBrooks was a father of three girls...1, 2, and 8 years old. He should not be dead."
"Neither should #RiahMilton, #DominiqueFells, and #RobertFuller," he continued. "This week, these four innocent people became victims of racism, violence, and intolerance. And we're still waiting for Justice for #BreonnaTaylor. I'm heartbroken for their families and for this country."
Timberlake concluded, "The system needs to change... it has repeatedly shown us that Black people in America are not safe. I'll follow up with more resources and ways to help. Continue to SAY THEIR NAMES. #BlackLivesMatter."
Police were called to an Atlanta-area Wendy's Friday night to investigate reports that a man had fallen asleep in his car at the drive-thru. After an officer administered field sobriety tests and a Breathalyzer, police attempted to arrest Brooks, who wrestled with police and ultimately took an officer's stun gun. After running from officers, Brooks turned and shot the stun gun at one of the officers, who responded by shooting his firearm at Brooks, who was shot twice in the back, according to the medical examiner.
The Fulton County Medical Examiner ruled Brooks' death a homicide. Atlanta Police Chief Erika Shields resigned in the wake of the shooting, and Officer Garrett Rolfe, who shot Brooks, was fired. The other officer involved in the call, Devin Bronsan, has been placed on administrative duty.
No criminal charges have been filed against the officers. An investigation is currently underway and Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard Jr. told ABC News on Sunday he expects a decision on the case sometime this week.
Many public figures have spoken out demanding justice for Brooks.
Kim Kardashian shared a petition from Change.org with the caption: "Justice for the Murder of Rayshard Brooks. Please sign this petition to spread awareness for the murder of Rayshard Brooks."
Chance the Rapper also commented on Brooks' death in a social media post.
