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Police Kill Ernest Vassell for Being Black, Autistic, Carrying Toy Gun

Submitted by Landon Bryce on Fri, 09/02/2011 - 07:39
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Police shot and killed Ernest Vassell beause he was walking around carrying a toy gun:

“They murdered him in cold blood for a toy gun!” cried Vassell’s older sister Claire Harding. “That’s no reason for you to kill somebody!”

In their defense, he may have pointed it at a dog.  And he was black.  And he did have autism.

On the other hand, there may not even have been a toy gun.  His nephew Leon is looking for witnesses.

Vassell's family are now hoping for some answers. "We already have over 20 witnesses saying that they didn't see him with any gun," Leon said.

Police, however, maintain that someone calling 911 said Vassell had a gun. When asked if they could show a photo of the gun, North Miami Beach Police released the following statement: "Releasing a photo of the replica firearm carried by Mr. Vassell is still being considered.

"I have to do everything for him," said Hardy. "I wash his clothes, I cook his food. I do everything for him, you know? I don't believe the police saying this guy had a gun. He's afraid of police. He's afraid of everything."