Ohio Police Release Bodycam Footage From August 24 Shooting of Pregnant Woman

Ohio police released bodycam footage from the shooting of a pregnant black woman on August 24.

For Context: The victim, 21-year-old Ta’Kiya Young, was suspected of shoplifting when she was confronted by two officers from the Blendon Township Police. Both officers were placed on administrative leave after the shooting. At the discretion of the department, one has returned to work.

The Details: Officers asked Young to leave her vehicle before she began to drive towards one of the officers. A few seconds passed before the officer in front of the car fired his weapon through the windshield. The car then rolled onto the sidewalk outside the shopping center as officers ran alongside the vehicle, telling Young to stop. An officer then broke the window, revealing Young slumped to the side.

Key Quotes: Young’s family and their attorney, said it was “undeniable that Ta’Kiya’s death was not only avoidable, but also a gross misuse of power and authority.” The police said the officers haven’t “waived their rights as victims.” Brian Steel, executive vice president of the Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge #9, said, “A weapon is not just a firearm. A weapon is also a 2000-pound vehicle that somebody puts in gear and is driving at you.”

How The Media Covered It: Media across the spectrum covered the events somewhat similarly. CNN (Lean Left bias) said the driver’s vehicle moved “slowly forward.” New York Post (Lean Right bias) said the car “accelerated toward” the officer. BBC (Center bias) said the car drove in his direction.