ST. LOUIS — "The purpose of the news conference is to bring awareness,” said Veii Kauaria, a member of the group, Organization for Black Struggle.
On Wednesday members of the group--organization for black struggle will voice their outrage and concerns following an officer-involved shooting that left 61-year-old Bade Ali-Jabar dead at the hands of a seven year St. Louis police SWAT officer.
“Make people aware that a very gentle, soft soul lost his life unnecessarily, said Kaauria. "
Police say their officers went to Jabar’s first floor apartment near Page and Hodiamont to arrest him.
They Sayjabar was wanted for felony warrants including: resisting arrest, assault and a weapons charge.
"He refused to come out and barricaded himself in the apartment,” said lieutenant John Green.
Police say after several attempts to get the man outside failed.
The initial officers backed off and swat team officers moved in.
Jabar’s friends and neighbors were concerned because they say he did not speak English.
"All he was asking was that can one of my people escort me out? Their decision was to not let anybody in,” said Veii Kauaria.
"The swat team tried to negotiate with him in two languages English and in Sudanese. We have an officer that speaks Arabic. That failed,” added lieutenant Green.
Hours later, when swat officer stormed the apartment, police say the man lunged at an officer with a knife and a metal pole.
The officer shot Jabar in his chest, killing the father of four.
The shooting has gotten much attention.
In a statement the international institute of St. Louis says in part, "We are using our voice and joining the call for a full investigation."
In her statement mayor Tishaura Jones says, "...our communities rightfully have questions about these incidents...".
"It was unavoidable. They did not do everything they could to prevent his death,” said Veii Kaauria.
"The last resort would be deadly force after he charged at the officers," said Green.
Members of organization for black struggle plan to hold their news conference at the shooting scene.
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