The recent death of Frank Tyson, a 53-year-old black man who was released from prison, has sparked outrage and renewed attention to the Black Lives Matter movement. Tyson died at the hands of police officers during an arrest in Canton, Ohio, after being pinned to the ground and handcuffed for a suspected traffic violation. Video footage captured by body cameras shows Tyson screaming for help and stating that he cannot breathe while being restrained by officers.
The parallels between Tyson’s death and the killing of George Floyd have highlighted ongoing issues of police brutality and systemic racism in the United States. Recent reports have also brought attention to the high number of deaths in custody resulting from police actions not intended to be lethal. Despite his criminal history, Tyson’s treatment at the hands of law enforcement has raised questions about excessive force and the need for reform within law enforcement agencies.
The state prosecutor’s office is currently investigating the incident, and two white police officers involved have been relieved of duty. Tyson’s final words, “I can’t breathe,” have become synonymous with George Floyd’s death and have sparked renewed calls for justice and accountability in policing practices. The circumstances surrounding his death are still under investigation, but his death has highlighted the urgent need for change within our legal system to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and justly by law enforcement agencies.