Bodycam Video Released in Fatal Shooting of Ta’Kiya Young by Ohio Police Officer

Ohio authorities have released bodycam footage showing the fatal shooting of Ta’Kiya Young by a police officer in Columbus. The incident, which occurred on August 24, has been denounced by Young’s family as a “gross misuse of power and authority.” Attorney Sean Walton, representing the family, called for the immediate firing and charging of the officer involved. The video, released more than a week after the shooting, allegedly confirms the family’s belief that Young’s death was unjustified.

The officer who shot Young has been placed on paid administrative leave while the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation conducts an examination, following standard practice. The second officer present at the scene has returned to active duty.

The bodycam video shows an officer at the driver’s side window accusing Young of theft and repeatedly demanding that she exit the vehicle. Young protests and both officers yell at her to get out. Young can be heard asking, “Are you going to shoot me?” seconds before she turns the steering wheel, and the car moves toward the officer standing in front of it. The officer fires his gun through the windshield, and Young’s car crashes into a grocery store wall.

Young’s family claims that she did not steal anything from the grocery store, citing a witness who saw her put down bottles of alcohol before leaving. Attorney Walton argues that the officers had no right to arrest or use lethal force against Young. The investigation will determine whether the shooting was justified.

Blendon Township Police Chief John Belford expressed condolences to Young’s family, calling the shooting a tragedy. The delay in releasing the video has drawn criticism, but Belford stated that it was necessary to ensure a thorough investigation.

Expert Edward Obayashi, specializing in vehicle-related police shootings, criticized the officer’s decision to position himself in front of Young’s car. Obayashi stated that best practice dictates officers should move away from approaching vehicles instead of firing their weapons.