Tragic incident stuns community and family. Call for Police accountability
A recent police shooting in Long Beach, California, resulted in the death of a man and injuries to an officer. The incident occurred on November 19, 2024, in the 5200 block of Atlantic Avenue after officers responded to reports of an armed individual. Despite efforts by negotiators and mental health teams during a two-and-a-half-hour standoff, the suspect reportedly fired a weapon, prompting a gunfire exchange. The suspect was killed, and an officer was treated for a gunshot wound. Investigations are ongoing, and body camera footage will be released soon.
A statement by the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) clarified that officers attempted to de-escalate the confrontation through negotiators and mental health specialists. However, the situation escalated when the suspect produced a firearm, leading to an exchange of gunfire. The department confirmed that officers were wearing body cameras, and footage will be reviewed and released. LBPD emphasized its commitment to transparency and assured the public of a thorough investigation, including an independent review by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
The shooting has sparked significant community response. The family of Brandon Boyd, a 38-year-old father of six, joined with local activists including Long Beach Black Lives Matter to hold a vigil to mourn his loss and call for accountability. Boyd’s family described him as a loving father and criticized the police for failing to de-escalate the situation during what they say was a mental health crisis. They are demanding the release of the 911 call audio and body camera footage.
Man called 911 for help before being shot by police
According to a press release issued by Black Lives Matter Long Beach, Boyd called 911 for help before being killed and His Family was is demanding justice and accountability from the City of Long Beach Police Department. The release goes on to say that at the scene, three members of his family (two sisters and a niece) were brutalized, arrested, and forced to sit, handcuffed, facing Brandon’s slain body for hours. One sister sustained a fracture as a result of the police brutality and use of force.
Brandon’s family has issued the following demands to the City of Long Beach Police Department:
- Release the 911 call that led to the incident
- Release the names of all 4 officers involved
- Release police worn body camera footage of what happened
- Drop all charges against the family members who were arrested and brutalized
- Charge the officers who killed Brandon
The family, community members, and BLM Grassroots Long Beach Chapter also want a review of LBPD’s policies and protocols regarding responses to calls for mental health crisis support.