(Danville, Va.) – A group of protesters gathered in downtown Danville Monday following a fatal officer-involved shooting on Sunset Drive.

Those rallying outside Danville’s Municipal Building chanted: “We want justice, we want peace.”

Danville Police responded to a reported domestic assault early Sunday and fatally shot 25-year-old Juan Markee Jones. A police statement says Jones initially fled in a car as officers approached and failed to heed police commands to exit the vehicle. Police say he “turned” on officers after they tried to use a stun gun, leading to the shooting.

The races of those involved have not been disclosed, but Danville Police Chief Scott Booth is urging the community not rush to judgment about rumors and social media comments regarding the shooting. Booth met Monday with Jones’ family members, city government leaders and members of the community in an effort to assure transparency and dispel rumors.

Booth said he has confidence that the Virginia State Police will conduct a thorough review and asked “citizens to reserve judgment” until the probe is concluded and a full report is available.

Virginia State Police Spokeswoman Corrine Geller said that investigation is underway. Once the probe is completed, the findings will be turned over to the commonwealth’s attorney for review and adjudication.

Loading...