Officials in Memphis, Tennessee released body cam video Friday evening that shows five officers beating, kicking and pepper spraying 29-year-old Tyre Nichols after he was pulled from his vehicle during a traffic stop on January 7. He died a few days later at the hospital.
All five officers have been charged with second degree murder. On Friday evening Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird and Police Chief Teresa Ewins issued statements on the death of Nichols.
“I offer our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Tyre Nichols, Gaylor Baird says. “His violent, senseless death is unacceptable, and all are justified in feeling sadness and outrage. I join the many voices across the country, including those in law enforcement, in condemning this horrific act. Our community members can be assured that the Lincoln Police Department’s commitment to see and honor the humanity in all whom they serve and protect is core to their mission. The five Memphis officers are not the Lincoln Police Department. I know the men and women of LPD. They are part of our community. I believe in our department and its leadership.”
In her statement Chief Ewins said “Like so many of you, I have seen the media coverage and body worn camera footage of the death of Tyre Nichols in Memphis, Tennessee. We share the outrage, anger and profound sadness by the egregious actions of those officers. I am deeply saddened for Mr. Nichols’ family, friends and his community. The actions of the officers involved in this tragedy do not represent all law enforcement officers. It is extremely difficult for Lincoln Police Department employees to see a profession, that they have dedicated their lives to, tarnished once again by others. Lincoln is an incredible community that celebrates diversity and mutual respect for others. We will work with our community partners to help answer questions or concerns they have regarding this incident.”