On January 7, 2023, Memphis Police Department officers conducted what began as a traffic stop and ended as a brutal slaying at the hands of police.
Tyre Nichols, 29, was the motorist in question that police were pulling over due to what police called "reckless driving." After attempting to flee on foot, Nichols was beaten by police officers. Lawyers for the family say the incident took place less than 100 yards from his residence.
In the video, officers are seen dragging Nichols from his car and shouting profanities throughout the confrontation. An officer tries to deploy a Taser at Nichols and then begins to chase him on foot. "I'm just trying to go home," Nichols is heard saying. Later, officers are seen repeatedly kicking, punching and using a baton to strike Nichols as he lies on the ground. At one point he's heard yelling "Mom."
Following the arrest, Nichols complained of shortness of breath while being transported to the hospital, where he arrived in critical condition. Tyre Nichols died three days later, on January 10th.
The Shelby County District Attorney's Office said in a statement earlier this week that it understood the "reasonable request from the public" to view the video of Nichols' death.
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