'I want to know why': Family of man shot by Wyoming Police hold protest to see footage
WYOMING, Ohio (WKRC) - The family of the man shot by police in Wyoming early Monday morning are demanding answers in regard to seeing the body camera footage from police.
The Hamilton County Coroner confirms 28-year-old Joe Frasure Jr. died from his injuries.
Family and loved ones of Joe Frasure Jr. held a small protest outside the Wyoming Police Department Wednesday afternoon.
“I want to know why they killed my brother. I want to see the video,” Joe Frasure, Frasure Jr.’s brother said.
Joe Frasure grips a sign in one hand, and a megaphone in the other, chanting for justice.
“My brother was a father, a brother, a son, a family member. A loving friend. Please help me get Justice for my brother, please. Help me. Please help me,” Frasure said.
The pain in his voice echoed outside the Police Department.
“They [police] are ignoring me. They keep us telling me I can't answer your questions. I can't answer your questions. I even asked for the names of the officers. I can't answer your questions. I asked to see the body camera footage. I can't answer your questions. I need to know, I want to know, that is my baby brother. I want to know that's all I want. I just want to know why,” Frasure said.
According to family, Joe Frasure Jr. and his father were working to clean out their deceased grandmother’s condemned apartment unit on Durrell Avenue early Monday morning. Someone called 911 and reported a possible burglary.
Police say when they tried to question Frasure, he jumped behind the wheel and drove at officers.
Wyoming police chief Brooke Brady said she has reviewed the shooting which stemmed from a burglary call at a multi-family building on Durrell Avenue at about 12:40 a.m.
Chief Brady said body camera video showed officers could hear and see people inside.
“The officers fired four shots at the minivan as the minivan was accelerating towards them. After the shots were fired, the minivan struck the building and became disabled. With the vehicle smoking and the engine still revving, our officers forced their way into the minivan and pulled Mr. Frasure from it, they then provided lifesaving care and he was transported to the hospital,” Brady said.
The family says seeing the video is the first step toward justice.
“It’ll help clarify a lot of you know, questions that they have as far as you know how this could have happened and none of it makes sense,” Erika Frasure, Joe’s sister-in-law said.
The body camera videos have been turned over to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s office and the Hamilton County Prosecutors office.
The Hamilton County Prosecutor's office is now handling the case. A press conference is expected Friday.
Local 12 did reach out to the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s office to see when the family will have access to the body camera video. Local 12 has yet to hear back.
