Unarmed Pregnant Woman Shot by Police in Ohio Parking Lot: Disturbing Bodycam Footage Released
Newly released bodycam footage reveals the tragic shooting of 21-year-old Ta’Kiya Young, an unarmed pregnant woman, by police officers in Blendon Township, Ohio. The incident occurred on August 24 in a Kroger supermarket parking lot, where officers had been called after allegations of theft involving Young and unidentified individuals stealing alcohol. The video footage shows one officer on the driver’s side of Young’s car, demanding that she exit the vehicle. Young explains that other girls were responsible for taking the merchandise. Another officer steps in front of the car, draws his weapon, and orders Young to get out of the car. Young, fearing for her life, asks, Are you going to shoot me?
As the car moves slowly forward, the second officer fires his weapon, striking Young. The officers continue to shout at her to stop the car as it rolls into two pillars. One officer breaks the window on Young’s side, and the car eventually comes to a halt. The last moments of the video are unclear as it abruptly cuts to black. The identities of the officers involved have not been disclosed, and they remain unidentified. The footage blurs their faces.
Young’s family issued a statement, expressing their anguish and outrage over her death. They believe that her killing was avoidable and a tragic abuse of power and authority. In addition to losing Ta’Kiya, the family mourns the loss of her unborn daughter, who was also a victim of this horrific act. Sean Walton, an attorney representing the family, asserts that Young had not stolen anything and claims to have found an eyewitness who will testify that she put down the bottles of alcohol when leaving the store.
The officer who shot Young, described as a young black mother, is currently on paid administrative leave while the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation conducts inquiries into the case. The Blendon Township police department, which claims that the officers were victims of assault, has chosen not to disclose their names. Family members of Young, along with activists and protesters, are demanding the release of the unedited footage of the incident and the arrest of the officer responsible for the fatal shot.
Ohio has witnessed a distressing number of deaths caused by police officers this year. At least 14 people have been killed, including 16-year-old Ma’Khia Bryant in Columbus and 25-year-old Jayland Walker in Akron. The growing outcry over Young’s case underscores the urgent need for justice and accountability in cases involving police use of force.
A vigil was held on August 25 to remember Young and her unborn baby girl, who was expected to be born in November. She leaves behind two young sons, Ja’Kobie (6 years old) and Ja’Kenlie (3 years old).
The release of the bodycam footage has sparked renewed calls for police reform and transparency. It remains crucial for authorities to thoroughly investigate this tragic event and ensure that appropriate actions are taken to prevent further loss of innocent lives and restore community trust.
