Protesters from Akron chant ‘Justice for Jayland’ at Cavs playoff game: Latest updates

Emily Mills, Akron Beacon Journal
·38 min read
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Protesters from Akron demanded justice for Jayland Walker at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse Tuesday night during Game 2 of the first round of the NBA playoffs.

Demonstrators held a large banner aloft, chanting, "Justice for Jayland" during the game and later as hosts Campy Russell and Cayleigh Griffin broadcast their "Cavaliers Live" postgame show after the Cavs' blowout of the New York Knicks.

One of the protesters appeared to be Imokhai Okolo, an attorney and activist from Akron who had addressed a crowd earlier in the day before a march from First Congregational Church of Akron to the John F. Seiberling Federal Building downtown.

Okolo had been a nominee for the Citizens' Police Oversight Board but failed to win the supermajority of votes needed to be confirmed by Akron City Council, due in part to his social media post criticizing Akron police soon after Walker's shooting.

Akron Children's Museum closed the rest of the week

The Akron Children's Museum announced Wednesday that it would be closed through Sunday, April 23.

Demonstrations Tuesday in Akron

Several demonstrations took place throughout Akron on Tuesday, the day after it was announced that a special grand jury decided the eight Akron police officers involved in the killing of Jayland Walker last summer will not be criminally charged.

A Justice for Jayland Walker March, hosted by The Freedom BLOC, Akron NAACP, St. Ashworth Temple and Akron Urban League, stepped off around 2:40 p.m., chanting, "Whose streets? Our streets!" from First Congregational Church of Akron, 292 E. Market St., Akron.

The group of about 80 people marched west on East Market Street, toward downtown Akron. An Ohio State Highway Patrol helicopter hovered above the marchers.

Speakers included representatives from Walker's family and legal team, The Freedom BLOC, the Akron NAACP, the Akron Urban League, Michael Blake, Tamika Mallory, DaMareo Cooper and Imokhai Okolo.

"It's us that are dying day in and day out," Okolo said. "And we have to be the ones to do something about it. Huey P. Newton said the revolution is always in the hands of the young, and the young will always inherit the revolution. It's time for us to pick up our inheritance and to carry this fight forward. Us young people, we have the energy, we have the ideas, we have the passion to carry this forward. We've been organizing since the dawn of time, since they brought us to this country in 1619. We've been organizing on those slave ships. We've been organizing in these plantations. We've been organizing in the fields, and we have been organizing in the prisons. And we have been organizing and organizing and organizing, and it's time for us to do our fair share."

"The city has been rocked to its core," said the Rev. Nanette Pitt, senior past of First Congregational Church of Akron. "Anger and lament are righteous and holy. They are a part of our tradition. And we should lament. We should seek justice and never rest until it is found. And so this day, we come together as a diverse, broad, wide community to continue that struggle, to continue that work."

"Do not walk in fear or in anger. Walk in optimism," said Walker family attorney Bobby DiCello.

There was a march on the University of Akron campus at 4 p.m. starting and ending at Coleman Commons, next to the Student Union and Clock Tower.

There was also a 6 p.m. prayer vigil hosted in the demonstration zone — which is located on High Street between East Bowery and State streets and blocked off with barricades to prevent vehicle traffic — led by Love Akron Executive Director and Chair of the Akron Citizens' Police Oversight Board Kemp Boyd.

Tribal Trauma Triage press conference

A separate 1 p.m. Tuesday press conference at The House of the Lord was hosted by Black leadership team “Tribal Trauma Triage,” made up of city, civic and religious leaders, including Deputy Mayor Marco Sommerville and Bishop Joey Johnson, the church's founder and pastor.

The press conference was meant to call for stability, peace and unity following the grand jury decision. Other scheduled speakers included Akron City Council Ward 10 Representative Sharon Connor, Minority Behavioral Health Clinical Director Ciara Dennis-Morgan and Pastor Mike Irby, the president 100 Black Men of Akron.

According to a news release, "Tribal Trauma Triage is a newly formed group of African American pastors and civic leaders convened by Deputy Mayor Marco Sommerville and facilitated by Bishop Joey Johnson in the wake of the Jayland Walker tragedy. They brought together pastors, representatives from Akron Public Schools and the Akron Police Department, city of Akron staff members, and representatives of the Freedom Bloc. Recognizing and understanding the grief which results from the historical traumatization of Black people and pervasive re-traumatization in community policing interactions, they created a team to deliver triage using a novel neighborhood or tribal approach. The group views neighborhoods as tribes, each with distinctive sociological characteristics and each requiring a unique approach to create peace, stability, and unity."

Sommerville and Johnson extended their condolences to Walker's family, friends, and other loved ones. The group called for unity, peace and change in the city.

Sommerville called on the Akron community to remain peaceful as they express their grief and anger after the release of the grand jury decision.

"Despite that pain, traumatization and disappointment with the outcome, I stand before you to call this community to unite for peace and to continue to work for justice and accountable policing, and for change," said Sommerville, who is running for mayor of Akron.

Johnson said he spoke for those without a voice or for those whose voice is being ignored and stands "for love and justice" demonstrated by Jesus Christ and nonviolent resistance practiced by Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi.

National Urban League, Akron Urban League release statements

The presidents of the National Urban League and Akron Urban League released statements Tuesday evening about the grand jury's decision:

“A routine traffic stop should not be a death sentence for Black people in this country,” National Urban League President and CEO Marc Morial said. “As of yesterday, Jayland Walker has become another one of the many who will never get justice for being mistreated by law enforcement. I am disappointed; disappointed that the officers involved won’t be held accountable; disappointed that Jayland was killed so brutally, and; disappointed that our black lives do not matter. There is no question that eight Akron Police Officers used disproportionate force against Jayland. We demand that the Department of Justice conduct a thorough investigation into the murder of Jayland Walker and urge national leaders to pass legislation creating an accountability standard for police officers into law.”

“Today, our hearts are heavy and filled with mourning surrounding the grand jury decision on the fatal shooting of Jayland Walker by Akron police officers. We continue to stand together with the Walker family and we also recognize the Akron community’s, hurt and outrage around the killing of Jayland Walker. Akron Urban League will continue to advocate for systemic change to prevent future tragedies like this from occurring in our community," Akron Urban League President and CEO Teresa LeGrair said. "For too long, there has been a sense that police officers are immune to consequences for their actions, even when they result in injury or death. Jayland Walker should still be alive, along with countless other Black lives taken too soon and too often. We understand the impact systemic racism has on the Black community and our promise has and always will be to demand and expect equality, equity, and justice for our Black and Brown citizens. The Urban League’s focus and mission is to level the playing field."

What do I do if my car was towed in Akron?

The city issued an update on what people should do if their cars were towed:

The Stubbs Justice Center, which houses the Akron Police Department, is currently closed to the public. If a vehicle owner needs a towed vehicle release, they need to call the information desk at 330-375-2658 to determine which tow company is holding their vehicle. The vehicle owner will need to take their valid vehicle registration and photo identification to that tow yard. They will be able to recover the vehicle once ownership is verified by the police department and a release is issued. The hours of operation for the tow companies are 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.

United Way of Summit and Medina issues statement

The United Way of Summit and Medina's offices at 37. N High St. in downtown Akron and 23 Public Square in Medina, will be closed for the rest of the week. The Financial Empowerment Center in Kenmore will be open Tuesday for the last day of tax season but will then be closed for the rest of the week. Staff will continue to work remotely.

If you need help, dial 2-1-1 or visit 211summitmedina.org to find information on mental health resources, basic needs support and more. Help is free, confidential and available 24/7.

The United Way of Summit and Medina issued this statement Tuesday afternoon:

We receive the news of the grand jury’s decision to issue no indictments with heavy hearts, as no outcome or decision creates peace, true equity, or brings back the life of Jayland Walker. Our hearts are with the Walker family, who are being forced to navigate a very painful path. We also understand this result will cause anger, frustration, and grief for our community and families across this nation.

The pursuit of justice is not the responsibility of anyone alone. While yesterday marked the end of the State’s criminal case, the work to create lasting equity and to dismantle racist structures and policies that perpetuate harm within communities of color continues. We must all be a part of that work. The work of city leadership and public safety workers is difficult, especially for those striving to do what is right and equitable. We recognize the service of those in the grand jury who weighed the evidence in reaching their difficult decision.

We are here for Akron, and for the Greater Akron community. United Way of Summit & Medina stands ready to work with fellow stakeholders, and to continue our work to promote justice and positive change in service to the people of this community.

Mental health resources available

The city has compiled a list of mental health resources on its website, akronupdates.com, including:

Akron Citizens’ Police Oversight Board releases statement

The Akron Citizens’ Police Oversight Board on Tuesday morning issued a statement about the grand jury decision.

The voter-mandated panel is tasked with reviewing investigations into the use of deadly force by officers. The board is also empowered to review department policies and issue nonbinding recommendations to the police auditor. It had its first meeting March 31.

The statement is below:

"Yesterday Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced that a special grand jury, which was seated to hear evidence in the fatal shooting of Akron resident Jayland Walker, decided not to indict the officers involved. The no bill verdict means that none of the eight officers involved in the shooting will be criminally charged.

"We the Members of Akron Citizens’ Police Oversight Board extend our sincere condolences to Ms. Pamela Walker, Ms. Jada Walker, and the entire Walker family. We cannot begin to imagine what the Walker family is feeling. The Board would also like to recognize the numerous citizens who have contacted us to express disappointment and frustration over the grand jury’s verdict. We hear you and ask that you please continue to share your thoughts, concerns, and ideas.

"The Board was created after the passage of Issue 10, which was proposed in the wake of Mr. Walker’s death, and Akron City Council’s adoption of Charter Amendment 68(a). The Board appreciates the hard work of Issue 10 organizing groups. The Board is committed to carrying out the Board’s duty to provide external and independent oversight and review of policing practices within the City of Akron, Ohio. The Board and the Office of Independent Police Auditor will rely on the authority granted under Charter Amendment 68(a) to ensure that the Akron Police Department’s internal investigation into Mr. Walker’s death is complete, thorough, and as transparent as possible. The Board will also consider what additional steps it might take concerning this tragic matter.

"Finally, the Board acknowledges the mistrust that exists between Akron citizens and law enforcement. The Board will work tirelessly towards creating the conditions to which trust can be built. There is much work to be done, and the Board does not take this obligation lightly."

Freedom BLOC statement

The Freedom BLOC released the following statement Monday:

"A no-bill decision, an expected result to an unexpected murder. To be executed while unarmed, shot at close to 100 times, hit nearly 50 times, is a lynching. Grand jury proceedings are supposed to be secret, but it's clear from today's announcements that they were only secret to those who cared and had the most hope our community. What was expected was an impartial investigation into a clear case of excessive force. What was delivered was a trial for a defenseless dead man.

"During an NAACP meeting earlier this week, the FBI representatives let slip that the very officers who delivered the murderous melee of bullets were allowed to give testimony during the proceedings, it's unknown whether they were in uniform, but their very inclusion is telling of the outcome and it's no secret. In what world do defendants testify in grand jury proceedings? How impartial could jurors be in granting a bill to an officer on the stand in uniform who feared for his life from a reach to something that wasn't even there?

"The outcome was no secret to the Akron city council, and police department who prepared for the worst, telling downtown businesses and the community at large to be fearful of protest by boarding up their businesses and denouncing dissent. They erected concrete and gated barriers as 'protest zones' telling us to keep the peace while knowing we'd gain no justice.

"The outcome was no secret to Akron public schools, who cut school early and canceled classes tomorrow in fear of what the community may do when starved for justice. Our faith in expecting current officials to do what is both right and just is no more. The rot in Akron and in Ohio smells of the strange fruit of lynched black men. In a state full of more hate groups than any other state in the union, it's no wonder we gained this result, but the sting of it persists along with the hope that we must keep alive for liberation. The struggle for justice continues.

"Today, we pray, grieve and give support to the Walker family. Tomorrow, we march. No one rests until the lives of Black people are valued, liberated and free."

About a half dozen arrests Monday night

Several downtown businesses remain boarded up with plywood, with murals going up on the boards of businesses at the intersection of Exchange and Main streets.

There were multiple caravans of cars driving around the city Monday night into Tuesday morning, including at Wilbeth Road and Main Street.

According to police, about a half dozen people were arrested, and numerous citations for traffic and equipment violations were issued. No injuries were reported.

During two traffic stops, two illegal handguns resulted in weapons charges, police said. A 30-year-old man was arrested and charged with criminal mischief for tampering with city-owned equipment on South High Street, as well as charges for an open container, possession of marijuana and obstructing official business, according to police.

Police said the caravan had a peak of more than 60 vehicles "sometimes blocking traffic and committing a wide range of traffic violations, including driving reverse of traffic as the parade of cars moved about the city" and "making it difficult for traffic to move at a normal flow."

The police department said officers began making traffic stops because of a concern for public safety and "an undeniable concern for uninvolved citizens traveling in the area" in West Akron, East Akron and on South Main Street.

Around 8:40 p.m., gunshots were heard in the area of South Main Street and East Wilbeth Road. Someone set off fireworks on Main Street before heading toward High and South Broadway streets, according to police.

Akron road closures

High Street between Bowery and State streets is closed as a protest zone. Some other downtown roads, Main and Broadway streets, were also temporarily closed Tuesday morning. Akron Metro RTA buses are still running but Routes Routes #1, 5, 6, 7, 10, 12, 19, 26, 28, 30, 33 and 34 were detouring around the closures.

The city said that some roads were temporarily closed Tuesday morning as the service department placed barricades in the area, similar to what it did in preparation for the demonstration zone on High Street. The roads opened back up once the barriers were in place, so they weren't posted on the city's updates website, akronupdates.com, since they weren't going to be closed for an extended period.

Grand jury decision: No criminal charges for 8 Akron officers who shot Jayland Walker

Summit County courthouse, University of Akron go remote

Akron Public Schools are closed Tuesday, with all after-school activities canceled.

The University of Akron announced late Monday night that it was moving all in-person classes at the main campus to remote instruction starting Tuesday until further notice "out of an abundance of caution."

All day and evening events on campus are canceled until further notice, and student-athletes should consult with their coaches on the status of practices and sporting events.

The university said that campus is open and expected to be operational, but employees who are able to work from home are encouraged to do so. Employees with questions should contact their supervisor.

The Summit County Common Pleas Court General Division, which had mostly been operating as usual, announced late Monday night switched to operating mostly remotely starting Tuesday until further notice, though a jury trial that was in progress will continue.

Kathryn Michael, the court's administrative judge, said this step was taken "out of an abundance of caution" because of expected protests.

Summit County Domestic Relations Court also is operating with limited staffing, and any scheduled trials or hearings on Tuesday will be continued.

Protesters gather Monday: Protesters rally Monday near site of June 27 police shooting of Jayland Walker in Akron

People scheduled for court proceedings should contact their attorney or respective court and visit summitcpcourt.net/zoom-links/ for streaming or more information.

Akron Municipal Court, which went remote the first day of grand jury proceedings on April 10, remains remote until further notice.

The city of Akron has restricted public access to both the city's Municipal Building, 166 S. High St., and the Harold K. Stubbs Justice Center, 217 S. High St. The Stubbs building houses the police department and Akron courts.

Akron City Council, which typically meets in-person at the Municipal Building on Mondays, will meet virtually until the building reopens for public access. To sign up for public comment or watch meetings, visit akroncitycouncil.org.

The Akron Children's Museum is closed through Sunday, April 23.

Wrestling coach reacts: Jayland Walker's high school wrestling coach 'truly disappointed' in grand jury decision

Black Elected Officials of Summit County are 'heartbroken by grand jury decision'

The Black Elected Officials of Summit County released a statement Monday night saying they're heartbroken by the grand jury decision and made an appeal that the hurt of the Walker family and Akron community be recognized.

"The Black Elected Officials of Summit County (BEOSC) is heartbroken to hear the news from the grand jury today. We continue to pray for the family of Jayland Walker and know that this is another incomparable agonizing painful moment that they must endure.

What does the BCI report say?: What we're learning from BCI investigation into Akron police shooting of Jayland Walker

"The BEOSC request that the city and police department recognize the hurt of the Walker family and the Akron community by not standing in the way of nonviolent protest which is an afforded right guaranteed by first amendment. We expect there to be anger; anger is a viable and understandable expression of the pain the Black community, not only here but across the nation, continue to experience from the imbalanced justice persistently inflicted upon our Black men specifically.

"We ask the community to continue engaging in nonviolent protest. We urge outside groups and those with malicious intentions to steer clear of our city. We don't need any more hurt or pain in our city.

"The BEOSC stand ready and willing to collaborate with the city, police department and any other organization to bring resolve and forward progress to Akron in the days, weeks, and months ahead."

Attorney general inadvertently names 4 Akron officers in Jayland Walker shooting

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost hosted a virtual press conference at 3:30 p.m. Monday, with Senior Assistant Attorneys General Anthony Pierson and Anthony Cillo, to announce the grand jury's decision.

The names of four of the eight Akron officers who killed Walker accidentally appeared Monday in Yost's presentation.

The video recording of the press conference was no longer available on the attorney general's Facebook page Monday night.

Akron police chief: Names of 8 officers who shot Jayland Walker won't be released

Yost said during the presentation, which laid out findings in the state's 10-month investigation, that it would be up to Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett as to whether any of the officers would be named now that a grand jury in Summit County has declined to charge them criminally. Two slides, however, contained names of four of the officers.

The slides include screenshots of footage from the four officers' body-worn cameras. The images capture the moments Walker sprang from his rolling vehicle while wearing a ski mask and the moment he turned toward police before being fired upon more than 90 times.

In the bottom right-hand corner of the still frame are the last names of four officers, which Mylett again said Monday the department is not releasing due to concerns for their safety after they received death threats.

Activists released eight names they claim to be the officers last fall.

The Beacon Journal has sued the city for the release of the names of the eight officers.

Walker family, supporters blast grand jury, say civil suit will be filed

Deacon William Dancy with St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ, Akron NAACP President Judi Hill and Kevin DeJournett watch the Facebook Live announcement Monday about the special grand jury decision in the Jayland Walker case.
Deacon William Dancy with St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ, Akron NAACP President Judi Hill and Kevin DeJournett watch the Facebook Live announcement Monday about the special grand jury decision in the Jayland Walker case.

Jayland Walker’s family and supporters hosted a press conference Monday evening in response to the special grand jury decision on the actions of eight police officers in his death.

They were joined by U.S. Rep Emilia Sykes, who has called for the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate the Akron Police Department.

Family of Jayland Walker: 'Our hearts are hurting': Jayland Walker's family reacts to grand jury decision

"Jayland should be alive today," she said. She later added the federal government may not be obligated to investigate, but her office would continue its research on how the government could both review the BCI investigation and Akron police practices.

Speakers also called for continued protest.

Judi Hill, president of the Akron NAACP, urged young people to continue agitating for change.

"My heart isn't feeling peaceful; my head isn't feeling peaceful. My head is saying change. Change has to happen, and this is the start folks. So young people ... do your TikToks, get on Facebook ... do what you need to do to keep up the heat. We don't want them to think they can get away with this again," she said.

Attorney Bobby DiCello accompanies Pamela Walker, mother of slain Jayland Walker and Emila Sykes, U.S. Representative Ohio 13th, as they enter for a press conference at St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ on Monday.
Attorney Bobby DiCello accompanies Pamela Walker, mother of slain Jayland Walker and Emila Sykes, U.S. Representative Ohio 13th, as they enter for a press conference at St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ on Monday.

The Rev. Raymond Greene Jr., executive director of The Freedom BLOC, said protests should continue "until Black men are able to walk down the street without being gunned down. Until Black men are able to walk, wake up and walk outside without the fear of being murdered."

"I am not here to condone violence, but I am saying that you have a right to be righteously indignant from these results today," he said.

Others who spoke asked that protests be peaceful.

"How can we be calm with the injustice that has happened?" said the Rev. Robert E. DeJournett, a relative of Walker and pastor of St. Ashworth Temple.

'Seen it too many times': Akron community reacts to verdict in Jayland Walker shooting

"We're not advocating violence at all, but we don't feel peaceful," he said. "We talked about being calm, but how can we be calm when the injustice we believe has happened? This is a sad, sad day for our family and our community.

"It's not over —  we're not giving up. We're going to continue the fight. My faith is not in our judicial system. My faith is in God. He is the ultimate judge, and he will continue to judge. We are advocate for protest," he said.

Attorney Bobby DiCello said the family plans to file a civil suit.

"We're going to file it within the one-year anniversary of his death. I would expect it to be around June 1," he said.

Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan, Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett host press conference

Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan and Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett hosted a press conference at 5:30 p.m. Monday.

Mylett said the names of the eight officers involved won't be released on the advice of the city's law department, saying threats against them are believed to be "active, viable and credible."

Mylett said the eight officers will also remain on administrative duties "for the foreseeable future." They returned to work on desk duty in October.

Akron Police Department: Akron police to launch internal probe into Jayland Walker case, won't name officers involved

Mylett said an internal review will now begin, which will include a comprehensive examination of the entire incident, including an examination of training and instruction; police procedures and adherence to those procedures; supervisory decisions; and tactical judgment.

Mylett said he doesn't have an estimate on the timeline for the internal investigation, saying "We're gonna take as much time as we need to." Mylett said the police department received the investigative report from the Ohio attorney general's office Monday afternoon, at the same time it was released publicly, and said the attorney general's report will inform the police department's internal investigation.

Mylett said he'll use the findings to determine if any policies or procedures were violated or if any policies, procedures or tactics should be changed. At the conclusion, the report will be provided to the city's police auditor for review. The report will also be released to the public at the end of the process.

Mylett said as a result of Walker's death, the department has updated its training on handcuffing suspects, saying that handcuffs should now be removed when a threat is no longer present. He said the department is also reviewing its pursuit policy to ensure it follows best practices in policing.

Mylett said a demonstration zone blocked off from car traffic will be open for seven days 24/7 on High Street, between Bowery and State streets, in downtown Akron for "peaceful civil demonstrations."

Horrigan called for peaceful protest, saying he fully supports people expressing if they disagree with the decision but said "don't break windows."

Akron FOP statement

The Akron FOP released a statement from Donald J. Malarcik, Noah C. Munyer and Jacob T. Will, attorneys for three of the eight Akron officers.

"The eight Akron Police officers involved in the Jayland Walker use of force incident would like to thank the Grand Jury for their service in this difficult and tragic case.

"This incident is a tragedy for our entire community, including the family of Jayland Walker, as well as all of the officers involved. Many officers work their entire career without discharging their weapon. A split-second decision to use lethal force is one that every police officer hopes he or she will never be forced to make.

"Each and every officer involved cooperated fully with an independent investigation conducted by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). They were interviewed and answered each and every question truthfully and completely.

"The Akron FOP acknowledges the pain and suffering of Mr. Walker's family and joins them in calling for peace in our community."

Ohio attorney general on Jayland Walker police shooting grand jury

Yost said the grand jury determined the eight officers were "legally justified in their use of force" and issued a "no bill," meaning there will be no state criminal action against the officers and no criminal charges. Yost said it's still possible for civil action for a wrongful death case to move forward.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost speaks about the grand jury decision not to charge the eight police officers involved in the killing of Jayland Walker in this screenshot from a virtual press conference Monday, April 17, 2023.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost speaks about the grand jury decision not to charge the eight police officers involved in the killing of Jayland Walker in this screenshot from a virtual press conference Monday, April 17, 2023.

"Here is a shorthand version of what transpired in June last year. Mr. Walker took at least one shot from his vehicle at the police, led them on a chase and exited from his vehicle and a ski mask, ignoring multiple commands by officers to show his hands and to stop," Yost said.

"Now, the Summit County grand jury, people who live there in the community, spent more than a week reviewing the BCI investigation. The grand jury concluded that the officers were legally justified in their use of force," Yost said.

"The grand jury just a little while ago issued what is called a no-bill, meaning that there will be no state criminal action, no charges at the state level. That does not resolve any potential civil action that might be brought for wrongful death," Yost said.

A "no-bill" means the person isn't indicted. This doesn't prohibit the prosecutor from seeking an indictment from another grand jury, such as in a case if additional evidence is discovered.

More on what is a 'no bill': What does a 'no bill' mean from grand jury in Jayland Walker case?

Bruce Butcher of The Freedom BLOC and Akron Prophetic Voices, left, watches the Ohio attorney general's press conference on the Jayland Walker case at St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ on Monday. Walker's family attends the church.
Bruce Butcher of The Freedom BLOC and Akron Prophetic Voices, left, watches the Ohio attorney general's press conference on the Jayland Walker case at St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ on Monday. Walker's family attends the church.

"Most of officer-involved shootings involve an officer or perhaps an officer and a partner. It is unusual although hardly unprecedented to have this many officers firing their weapon at the same time at a single subject. The sheer number of shots is one of the things that makes the video so hard to watch...That being said, it is critical to remember that Mr. Walker had fired on the police, and that he shot first," Yost said.

The grand jury included two Black jurors and was made up of three men and six women.

Yost said the attorney general's office won't release the names of the officers, as they haven't been charged with anything. He referred questions about whether or not the officers' names will be released to the Akron Police Department. The Akron Beacon Journal sued Akron for the names last year.

What did Ohio Attorney General's Office say about Jayland Walker shooting

The number of shots fired by each officer varied from three to 18 (the breakdown of shots by officer was 4, 11, 6, 3, 18, 18, 18, 16). Pierson said some officers reloaded but did not continue to fire their guns after they reloaded.

Yost said officers fired 94 shots at Walker over 6.7 seconds. Walker had 46 gunshot wounds to his body, which included entrance and exit wounds. There were no drugs or alcohol in his system.

"As Mr. Walker turns at one particular point in time, he raises his arm out. At that point in time, he is shot by responding officers. The officers believed that Mr. Walker was a threat to them. They believed that he was a threat to themselves and other officers. As a result, he was shot," Pierson said.

Senior Assistant Attorney General Anthony Pierson speaks during a virtual press conference about the grand jury decision on the eight police officers involved in the killing of Jayland Walker on Monday, April 17, 2023.
Senior Assistant Attorney General Anthony Pierson speaks during a virtual press conference about the grand jury decision on the eight police officers involved in the killing of Jayland Walker on Monday, April 17, 2023.

"Various officers indicated in their statements that they heard a gunshot, and they responded to the gunshot thinking that it was Mr. Walker who was shooting. It wasn't until later that it was discovered that Mr. Walker did not have a weapon on him," Pierson said.

Pierson said there was no evidence that Walker committed "suicide by cop" but said Walker was going through a difficult time after the recent death of his fiancée.

"I don't want to speculate as to what Mr. Walker was thinking at the time, but I can say this, that it has been made public that Mr. Walker was going through a very tough time in his his life. I think it's been documented that Mr. Walker's fiancée had died a short time before this incident happened. And he was going through a very tough time. And he was hurting," Pierson said.

Who was Jaymeisha Beasley? Jayland Walker's fiancée died in wreck weeks before shooting

"And that night that he encountered the police, he was not acting himself. By all accounts, this was a good man, a good person with no prior criminal record, so he was not acting himself. But other than that, I'm not willing to make a leap as to his intentions on that night," Pierson said.

According to the 227-page report from the Ohio Attorney General's office, Walker's Google account showed searches for “what happens when you drink bleach” on May 30, “drinking bleach” on June 10 and “quickest ways to die” on June 10. His mother and sister said he showed no signs of being suicidal. The Beacon Journal is reading through the report and will post updates on what it contains.

In preparation for the special grand jury hearing for the Akron police shooting of Jayland Walker, workers installed guard rails around the perimeter of the Summit County Courthouse in Akron.
In preparation for the special grand jury hearing for the Akron police shooting of Jayland Walker, workers installed guard rails around the perimeter of the Summit County Courthouse in Akron.

Below is a running timeline of events related to the decision:

Who was Jayland Walker?: Family, friends knew man killed by Akron police as funny, loving

What to know: Complete coverage of the Jayland Walker police shooting in Akron, Ohio

4:15 p.m. U.S. Rep Emilia Sykes releases statement

U.S. Rep. Emilia Strong Sykes (D-13), who represents Summit County, said she would be formally requesting the Department of Justice to begin an investigation into the patterns and practices of the Akron Police Department.

“We’ve seen it too many times. A routine traffic stop ends in death, and a family and community mourn the loss of a son. A brother. A friend. A neighbor. As this country and community reckons with another tragic death, we find ourselves yearning for a justice system that protects us all. 

“The safety and security of our neighborhoods requires trust between the community and the law enforcement officers who have taken an oath to protect and serve, but this trust has been violated and must be rebuilt. As such, I will formally request the Department of Justice to begin an investigation into the patterns and practices of the Akron Police Department to start the process of understanding how the department operates and look to create solutions for more community-focused policing that serves the needs of every segment of our community. 

“Finally, as people begin to express their anger, grief, and concern through their Constitutional right to protest, I ask that you remember the words of Jayland’s family and honor his memory by protesting without violence. After the TV crews leave and the nation is no longer watching, it will only be us left to pick up the pieces. Our community deserves the chance to heal and move forward which we will do, must do — together,” Sykes said in a statement.

3:41 p.m. Monday: Akron Public Schools cancels school Tuesday

All Akron Public Schools will be closed Tuesday, with all after-school activities canceled.

The Akron Art Museum will also be closed this week.

APS cancels school Tuesday: Akron Public Schools to close Tuesday following grand jury decision in Jayland Walker case

3:39 p.m. Monday: 8 officers who shot Jayland Walker will not face criminal charges

The eight Akron officers who shot and killed Jayland Walker last June won’t face criminal charges in his death.

A special grand jury in Summit County Common Pleas Court on Monday returned a no-bill, which means the jurors found the actions of the officers were justified.

Read full story here.

3:36 p.m. Monday: Summit County Fiscal Office going remote

The Summit County Fiscal Office will be operating on a full-time remote work schedule until further notice. Residents who need assistance can call 330-643-2588 or email summittreas@summitoh.net.

3:30 p.m. Monday: Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost plans virtual press conference, watch events planned throughout Akron

Several local watch events of the virtual press conference by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost were planned throughout Akron.

The locations include St. Ashworth Temple, Remedy Church, Urban League, Zion Apostolic, East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation, Church of Our Savior and Mount Calvary Baptist Church.

2:34 p.m. Monday: Summit County Council cancels meeting

Summit County Council has canceled its regular meeting Monday, with all council business on the meeting agenda being addressed next Monday, April 24. The regularly scheduled committee meeting will also be held next Monday.

1 p.m. Monday: Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan releases statement: 'Committed to listening to our residents'

Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan released a statement ahead of the grand jury decision:

"As we prepare for whatever is to come from the grand jury as they make decisions in the officer involved shooting of Jayland Walker, we remain committed to listening to our residents and making space for their voices and concerns, while also prioritizing everyone's safety. At the beginning of this process, I asked our community to have patience with the investigation and we are now getting very close to some answers. I have an overwhelming amount of faith in the Akron community and I know we will lean into our partnerships and relationships through the uncertainty of the days ahead."

10:11 a.m. Monday: St. Vincent-St. Mary High School announces rapid dismissal Monday, remote learning days

St. Vincent-St. Mary High School announced Monday that there would be a rapid dismissal at 3 p.m. Monday, with all students required to leave campus immediately.

The school will go to remote learning days Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, with the campus closed. All student activities and athletics are canceled from Monday through the end of the week, with the school notifying families when normal activities and athletics resume.

Akron clergy, community leaders meet: 'The eyes of the country are upon us': Akron prepares for decision in Jayland Walker case

12 p.m. Friday: University of Akron classes in downtown buildings go remote

At noon Friday, classes in the University of Akron's Polsky and College of Business buildings were moved to remote online learning until further notice, the university said. Both buildings are downtown near city offices.

Because Akron Early College uses UA's Polsky Building, the school has a "calamity day" Monday, according to a statement Friday from Mary Outley, interim superintendent of Akron Public Schools. Outley said information on the other APS schools located downtown, STEM High School and its middle school, would be sent to parents by the facilities' principals.

Background about the special grand jury taking place in downtown Akron

Summit County’s first-ever special grand jury convened April 10 to hear prosecutors from the Ohio Attorney General’s Office present BCI’s findings. If the grand jury does not indict the officers, the investigation’s findings will be released publicly.

Akron police also will conduct a separate internal investigation to determine if the officers violated any department regulations.

After jurors hear all the evidence, they will have the task of answering whether the actions of the officers was “objectively reasonable,” a standard established for evaluating use-of-force claims in the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1989 decision in Graham v. Connor.

Jurors must decide this based on how a reasonable officer would have responded in this situation, according to the Supreme Court decision.

Support local journalism: Why local journalists matter for covering the Jayland Walker case from beginning to end

Akron protests: What to know if you're protesting about grand jury in Jayland Walker police shooting case

If at least seven of the nine grand jurors determine the actions of the officers weren’t reasonable, they must then decide if there is probable cause that the officers committed a crime.

The jurors must make this determination for each of the eight Akron officers. They could decide to indict none, all or some of the officers.

Akron leaders are concerned about what the reaction will be to the grand jury’s decision and have prepared by erecting fencing and concrete barriers around the courthouse and boarding up some windows in City Hall.

Full coverage of events that occurred in Akron, Ohio after Jayland Walker's death linked below

What happened the night Jayland died?: This interactive map depicts Akron police's pursuit of Jayland Walker

Jayland Walker: What the state investigation of fatal Akron police shooting may reveal

How do grand juries work?: What to know about the special grand jury convening Monday on Jayland Walker's shooting

More: Why police nationwide rarely face charges when they kill in the line of duty

Is Akron ready?: With Jayland Walker grand jury decision coming, city prepares

Downtown prepares: Downtown Akron braces for more possible protests as grand jury reviews Jayland Walker case

What don't we know: What we still don't know in the Akron police killing of Jayland Walker

APD's plan for protests: Akron Police Chief Mylett discusses protest zone, department's plan for protests

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Protesters from Akron rally for Jayland Walker at Cavs playoff game