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WASHINGTON, DC - Fox 8 has learned that the Smithsonian Institution is not actually looking to preserve the gazebo where Tamir Rice was shot.

On Monday, May 2, the City of Cleveland confirmed that they were delaying the planned demolition of the gazebo after Rice's mother, Samaria, contacted the Law Department asking that the gazebo not be torn down, as the Smithsonian Institution is interested in it for historical reasons. The city confirmed with William Pretzer of the Smithsonian who said he was acting on behalf of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, that the museum was interested in talking about a possible relocation of the gazebo.

However, on Tuesday, Fox 8 spoke with La Fleur Paysour, Media Relations of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. In a statement she sent us as well, Paysour says that,

Contrary to reports, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture is neither leading nor participating in any efforts to preserve the Cleveland gazebo.

Designs for the 12 exhibitions that will be on view when the museum opens in September are already complete and the museum will not be considering additional collection items for some time.

At this writing we know of no person or organization actively involved in discussions about preserving the gazebo.

Subodh Chandra, the attorney for the Rice family, expressed his confusion over this matter to Fox 8.

Fox 8 has reached out to the City of Cleveland and Pretzer but has yet to hear back from those parties. When we do, we will update this developing story.

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