NAACP calls for ‘thorough investigation’ of man’s death in police custody
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The NAACP El Paso Branch is calling for “an immediate and thorough investigation” into the death of a man who died after being placed in police custody in South-Central El Paso on April 14.
Police say said that 35-year-old Jonathan Rose Eddens died during the incident.
Police say man died after being taken into custody; incident being investigated
The “critical incident,” as the Police Department called it, happened at 3:15 p.m. along the 3300 block of Alameda. They initially said that the man was running in and out of traffic and died after he was taken to the hospital.
Video obtained by KTSM showed a group of officers chasing Eddens and then subduing him on the ground. One officer appeared to be kicking at something.
Police have not issued any other updates about the incident, but did say it was being investigated by the department’s Crimes Against Persons Unit, the Texas Rangers and the Internal Affairs Division.
“The NAACP El Paso Branch is deeply saddened and disturbed by the recent death of Mr. Jonathan Rose Eddens under police custody in our city. This tragedy raises serious questions about the procedures and practices of local law enforcement agencies, and we demand an immediate and thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to this devastating loss,” the NAACP El Paso Branch said in a statement sent out to media late Tuesday night, April 24.
Video shows arrest of man who later died
Here is the rest of the statement from the NAACP:
“The NAACP stands firmly against all forms of injustice and inequality, and it is our solemn duty to hold those in power accountable for their actions. The death of Mr. Edden’s while under the care of those sworn to protect and serve undermines public trust in our law enforcement.
“We call upon our elected officials, the El Paso Police Department, and all relevant authorities to conduct a transparent, swift, and unbiased investigation into this incident. The family of Jonathan Eddens and the El Paso community deserve answers and assurance that steps will be taken to prevent such tragedies in the future. Furthermore, we urge our community members to come together during this difficult time to seek justice and promote healing.
“The NAACP El Paso Branch is committed to working tirelessly to advocate for civil rights, justice, and systemic change in our community. We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Mr. Eddens and pledge our support in seeking justice and accountability.”
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