We now know that Randall Kerrick, the officer charged in the shooting, fired 12 shots at Jonathan Ferrell, who was unarmed.

Twelve. Shots.



CMPD Officer Randall Kerrick fired his gun 12 times during an encounter with an unarmed 24-year-old man early Saturday, hitting the man 10 times, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police said Monday. .... CMPD spokeswoman Jessica Wallin said in a statement that Kerrick’s actions were “excessive,” adding that he “did not have a lawful right to discharge his weapon during this encounter.” As a result, Charlotte-Mecklenburg police took the rare step of charging one of their own with voluntary manslaughter after homicide investigators first detailed the case to top commanders, city staff said.

The Ferrell family has retained Christopher Chestnut, who spoke for them at a press conference today.

I can't get the video to embed, but I've transcribed part of Mr. Chestnut's statement the best I could, starting at 1:05:



I think that in everyday America a student that's working two jobs, minding his own business, has a car wreck, and is seeking help, the thought, the decision to seek help could be a fatal one, even when you call a police officer, who you'd anticipate would help and protect you. We're not sure, I mean, the officer was white, Mr. Ferrell is black, um, I think this is poor decision making. I think this is more a reflection of where we are as a country. That perhaps we need to stop, and pause, regardless of race, and become more sympathetic to each other. You know, we're entertaining saving Syria, perhaps we need to save ourselves. Let's look inward first.

My heart breaks for the Ferrell family. I'm glad they're speaking out for justice. I admire their strength in a time of devastation.