TEMPE, AZ — A protest to support the Black Lives Matter movement turned violent Monday night when demonstrators clashed with Tempe police.
Video shows officers using what appeared to be tear gas on the protesters who were marching for justice for Dion Johnson and Dalvin Hollins, who were both shot and killed by Valley law enforcement.
The protest got so heated, Tempe police were forced to shut down several streets in the area.
At this time, protesters/demonstrators have taken Scottsdale Rd at Playa Del Norte Dr and have been warned by officers to disperse and exit the roadway.
— Tempe Police (@TempePolice) July 28, 2020
Tempe Police Chief Sylvia Moir weighed in on Twitter saying, "It is unacceptable to hurl projectiles at people- cops are people there to protect free expression and provide public safety. When you throw objects at them, that is NOT OK."
It is unacceptable to hurl projectiles at people- cops are people there to protect free expression and provide public safety. When you throw objects at them, that is NOT OK. https://t.co/cJ4c2kvOhh
— Sylvia Moir (@ChiefMoir) July 28, 2020
Hollins, 19, was suspected of robbing a pharmacy and was shot and killed by a Tempe police officer in July of 2016.
Johnson was shot and killed by an Arizona Department of Public Safety trooper earlier this year.
Tempe police say a total of seven protesters were arrested during the event for various crimes.
Police also say one officer was injured when an unknown projectile thrown by protesters struck the officer in the face, causing a laceration requiring medical attention.
