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Roger Heard's Family Seeks Answers After Fatal Police Shooting
The family of Roger Heard Jr. is searching for answers after he was fatally shot by police officers in Chattanooga, Tennessee on Friday night.
Heard, 24, was killed during an incident at a Raceway gas station. According to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Chattanooga police officers were attempting to take Heard into custody over outstanding warrants when the shooting occurred.
The Fatal Encounter
Authorities say that when officers approached Heard's vehicle, he exited while armed with a firearm. The officers then opened fire with their own guns, striking and killing Heard.
The exact details surrounding the shooting remain unclear. Heard's family says they do not know what led to the confrontation or why lethal force was used against him.
Remembering Roger Heard Jr.
On Saturday evening, Heard's loved ones gathered at the Raceway gas station to celebrate his life and demand more transparency about his death.
Family members described Heard as a caring father of three young children. His aunt, Ceresa Walker, said Heard had a "good heart" and "would give anybody anything."
Heard's grandmother, Barbara Heard, told reporters she raised him since he was a baby. "I don't know what happened, but I know he didn't deserve to die like that," she said.
Seeking More Facts'
Heard's family says the police have not provided them with any details about why officers were attempting to detain Heard or what prompted the gunfire.
“We want answers,” said Bria Anderson, the mother of Heard's two sons. “The truth ain't came out yet. But it's going to come out.”
The TBI is investigating the shooting at the request of the local District Attorney. The two police officers involved have been placed on temporary leave per department policy.
Calls for Accountability
Community activists are also demanding more accountability and transparency regarding Heard's death.
"We want the police to release any videos they have so the family and community can get a better understanding of what happened," said Marie Mott of the social justice group Concerned Citizens for Justice.
The incident comes amid a nationwide push for more scrutiny of police use of force, particularly when the victims are Black like Heard.
Remembering a Lost Loved One
At Saturday's balloon release, Heard's family shared memories of his playful personality and devotion to his children.
“His smile would light up a room,” recalled his aunt Ceresa. She pleaded for any witnesses to come forward, saying “We deserve to know the truth.”
Heard's grandmotherBarbara summed up the feelings of many in the grieving family. “My heart is torn apart," she said. “We want justice for Roger.”
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