Violence broke out in Baltimore late Saturday as people marched to protest the unexplained death of a black man in police custody one week ago.
An estimated 2,000 people marched through the city as they held signs and chanted “no justice, no peace.” Police say they arrested 12 people after a smaller group broke off from the others to smash in the windows of several businesses and throw bottles and other objects at authorities.
The incident was sparked by the death of Freddie Gray, a 25-year-old black man who authorities have said died of a spinal injury after they arrested him for reasons not disclosed. The incident is being investigated internally and six Baltimore police officers have been suspended.
The outbreak prompted authorities to tell attendees at the Camden Yard ballpark to stay in place, as much of it occurred near the stadium.
Protestors say the incident is the latest piece of evidence that police are unfairly targeting and mistreating black men. Last month, the deaths of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri and Eric Garner in New York City prompted nationwide protests.
Baltimore Mayor Rawlings-Blake, who supports the internal investigation into Gray’s death, expressed disappointment that the otherwise peaceful march turned violent.
“I am profoundly disappointed to see the violence in our city this evening,” she said.
