George Floyd’s girlfriend and family are calling for calm in Minneapolis after shops were looted and buildings set ablaze during protests over Floyd’s death.
Courteney Ross, Floyd’s girlfriend of three years, told the Star Tribune on Thursday that she was “heartbroken” by the violence, which has so far resulted in one shooting death. Wednesday marked the second day of mass protests and an escalation into overt crimes.
“Waking up this morning to see Minneapolis on fire would be something that would devastate Floyd,” Ross said. “He loved the city. He came here [from Houston] and stayed here for the people and the opportunities. … Floyd was a gentle giant. He was about love and about peace.”
The protests began after video emerged of Floyd, 46, being pinned to the ground by a police officer. He could be heard pleading for his life as he slowly lost consciousness and was later pronounced dead. The four officers involved in the incident have been fired from the department and are under investigation by the FBI. The city of Minneapolis has identified the officers as Derek Chauvin, Thomas Lane, Tou Thao, and J. Alexander Keung.
Protesters have demanded accountability from the officers, arguing that Floyd’s death was racially motivated. Ross said she hopes demonstrators know that she understands their frustration but implored them “to protest in a peaceful way.”
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey on Thursday said he was calling in the National Guard after the demonstrations turned into riots.
“I cannot risk the safety of innocent people, and so that is what I’ve been sworn to uphold, and that is what I am dedicated to do,” he said. “We can have both things. We can have peaceful demonstrations, but I also have to ensure the safety of everyone in the city.”
Attorney Ben Crump released a statement on Thursday from Floyd’s family that said the family is thankful for the protesters who are “standing for justice” but want to see peace in the city.
“They know that any decent human being who watches the video of the police killing their Gentle Giant by having his knee on his neck while he was handcuffed facedown will also feel a shortness of breath like George,” the statement said, adding that, while the family wants justice for Floyd, “We also cannot sink to the level of our oppressors. … Looting and violence distract from the strength of our collective voice.”
The incident has brought national public scrutiny to Minneapolis and its police department. President Trump said he will be receiving a full briefing on Floyd’s death and has asked for the FBI to expedite the investigation into the officers.
“My heart goes out to George’s family and friends. Justice will be served!” the president tweeted on Wednesday.
