Contact: Leslie Love, Executive Director, (313) 549-7469
LANSING, Mich. (June 9, 2022) — The Michigan Legislative Black Caucus has issued the following statement regarding the charges announced by Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker against Officer Christopher Schurr in the fatal shooting of Patrick Lyoya:
“We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to the Lyoya family, and we join the Grand Rapids community in its steadfast determination to end these senseless, fatal encounters between law enforcement and members of the Black community. Today’s announcement of charges being brought by the Kent County prosecutor against Officer Schurr — who shot Patrick Lyoya during a struggle in a routine traffic stop — is one important step toward accountability and justice.
“However, it’s just the beginning. Lyoya’s family and the community deserve to see accountability. It’s evident that change is required and should be demanded to prevent the violent police response that led to Patrick Lyoya’s murder. We pledge to work with the Governor, the Governor’s Black Leadership Advisory Council, the Civil Rights Commission, and local Grand Rapids community leaders to produce meaningful resolutions in law enforcement that disproportionately impacts communities of color.”