Protesters Gather After Homeless Man Was Fatally Shot By Police In NW OKC

A large group of protesters congregated on Friday outside an Oklahoma City police shooting scene. The group showed up to protest the latest deadly police shooting.

The family identified the man killed as 60-year-old Bennie Edwards.

Police were called to a disturbance at a pawn shop located near North Pennsylvania Avenue and West Hefner Road. Police said Edwards was armed with a knife and bothering customers.

Police said three officers confronted Edwards and attempted to de-escalate the situation by using less-lethal force.

The officers reportedly used OC gas (more commonly known as pepper spray) and Tasered the man.

Police said Edwards rushed at the officer and that was when two officers fired at him. Edwards died at the scene.

A bystander caught the shooting on camera and posted the video on social media.

Edwards's family said that was how they found out their loved one died. They said Edwards was homeless and had mental health issues.

“Everyday that I wake up, somebody that looks like me is becoming a hashtag,” said Ameerah Gaines, shooting victim’s niece. “Everyday I wake up, somebody that looks just like me is becoming a hashtag and it’s getting out of control. Now, it’s my uncle.”

Police said the interaction with Edwards unfolded very quickly and officers were left without a choice but to fire at him.

They asked the public to give the investigation time and that the body worn cameras will show exactly what happened.