EDGARTOWN, Mass. – President Obama offered his "deepest condolences" to the family and community of Michael Brown, an unarmed black Missouri teenager who was shot to death by police Saturday.

In a statement, Obama said that the 18-year-old's death has "prompted strong passions" but urged people to remember Brown, through "reflection and understanding."

“I know the events of the past few days have prompted strong passions, but as details unfold, I urge everyone in Ferguson, Missouri, and across the country, to remember this young man through reflection and understanding," Obama said. "We should comfort each other and talk with one another in a way that heals, not in a way that wounds. Along with our prayers, that's what Michael and his family, and our broader American community, deserve."

Protesters and police have clashed in Ferguson, Mo., after the death of the teenager. Police have used rubber bullets and tear gas to try to disperse the protesters, many of whom were black.

Attorney General Eric Holder has said the Department of Justice is investigating the shooting. Obama said they will "continue to direct resources to the case as needed."

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