Tyrin Johnson should be making preparations to return to Tennessee State University this week. However, he will not return to school because his precious life was taken by two Tennessee National Guard members who were likely not trained to patrol or handle issues in an urban community.
Our hearts go out to the Johnson family, but we are committed to more than just thoughts and prayers. We call for a full transparent investigation. We call for the immediate release of all bodycam and surveillance footage. We also call for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) to immediately announce an expedited timeline in which they will handle this investigation. Time is of the essence.
This should be a priority for everyone. The NAACP will stay engaged, and we are committed to seeing this process through until the end.
Kermit Moore
President, NAACP Memphis Branch