Body camera and security video released by police in Akron, Ohio, show the fatal shooting of Michael Jones, 54, by an Akron police officer. The incident occurred on August 17 when officers were investigating a stolen U-Haul box truck at a gas station. The video shows an officer approaching Jones in the driver’s seat of the truck and attempting to arrest him. A struggle ensues, and Jones drives away while the officer hangs out the door. The officer warns Jones before firing twice, resulting in Jones’ death. Officers dragged Jones out of the vehicle and administered emergency first aid, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. A loaded firearm was found near Jones after he was removed from the vehicle, not inside it. Two 911 calls were made after the shooting, with one claiming Jones was shot while handcuffed, which was later found to be inconsistent with the body camera footage. The state Bureau of Criminal Investigation is conducting an investigation, which will be reviewed by the state attorney general’s office. Mayor Shammas Malik expressed condolences to Jones’ family and emphasized the importance of open conversations about public safety in Akron. Jones’ children, represented by attorney Bobby DiCello, are calling for accountability and justice in the case, questioning the officers’ actions leading to their father’s death.
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