Demonstrators marched through the streets of Washington, D.C., on Tuesday night to protest the fatal police shooting of Justin Robinson, a member of the Cure the Streets violence interruption program. The protest, which drew over 100 people, resulted in six arrests after protesters allegedly threw bottles, rocks, and other objects at officers.
On Tuesday, September 10th, a group of demonstrators took to the streets of Washington, D.C., to express their outrage over the recent fatal police shooting of Justin Robinson, a 26-year-old member of the Cure the Streets violence interruption program. The shooting occurred earlier this month at a McDonald's on Marion Barry Avenue in the southeast part of the district.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), body camera footage shows Robinson unconscious in his car with a gun in his lap after crashing into the McDonald's. When he regained consciousness, police say he attempted to grab an officer's gun through his car window before being shot by police.
Washington, D.C. Protests Erupt Over Fatal Police Shooting of Cure the Streets Member
The demonstrators, led by the activist group Black Lives Matter DC, marched from the 7th District police station to the McDonald's where the shooting took place. They chanted slogans such as "No justice, no peace" and "Arrest the officers" while facing officers standing behind barricades.
The protest, which grew to over 100 people, forced streets to shut down. MPD reported that six protesters were arrested after they allegedly began throwing bottles, rocks, and other objects at officers. The police department released a statement saying that they "will continue to support those who choose to protest peacefully and safely, and we will continue to hold accountable those who commit criminal acts."
Washington, D.C. Protests Erupt Over Fatal Police Shooting of Cure the Streets Member
The officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave while an investigation into the incident is underway. The shooting has sparked outrage and raised questions about the use of force by police officers, particularly against unarmed individuals.
Cure the Streets is a pilot public safety program launched by the Office of the Attorney General of D.C. that seeks to reduce gun violence. The program employs former gang members and individuals with a history of violence to intervene in conflicts and prevent shootings.
Washington, D.C. Protests Erupt Over Fatal Police Shooting of Cure the Streets Member
Robinson's death has reignited calls for police reform and greater accountability within law enforcement agencies. Activists and community leaders have expressed concerns about the lack of transparency and the slow pace of investigations into police-involved shootings.
The MPD has increased its presence in the Seventh District in the wake of the protests. Police officials say they are committed to ensuring the safety of both the public and the protesters.
Washington, D.C. Protests Erupt Over Fatal Police Shooting of Cure the Streets Member
The protest over Robinson's death is part of a larger national movement demanding justice and accountability for victims of police violence. Similar demonstrations have been held in cities across the country, highlighting the ongoing struggle for racial justice and an end to police brutality.
