It’s been one year since the deadly police shooting of Sean Monterrosa in Vallejo. His family took part in a rally Sunday in San Francisco on his behalf along with community groups and other families impacted by police shootings.
“As we mark the one somber year anniversary, it’s important to us that you know who Sean was as a person,” said Michelle Monterrosa, Sean’s sister.
Michelle Monterrosa remembered Sean as a loving brother and son who cared about the community.
“Sean’s very last text message to us was to sign a petition to demand justice for George Floyd,” she added.
The 22-year-old was outside a Walgreens where looting was reported during demonstrations and unrest following Floyd’s murder.
Vallejo police said Sean Monterrosa was kneeling and moving his hands, an officer shot him through a windshield believing he had a gun. It turned out to be a hammer.
“We are here one year later memorializing his life celebrating his life and also standing alongside his family calling for justice for both Sean and every person lost to police state violence,” said Terisa Siagatonu, an organizer of Sunday’s rally.
The family has been active pushing for change.
“We’re trying to bring real change and accountability to the Bay Area, but more importantly here in California,” Michelle Monterrosa added.
“Sean’s family has emphasized that they are looking for criminal accountability first. So, we have prepared a civil suit that runs parallel in the federal courts to the ongoing criminal investigation,” said Lee Merritt, the family’s attorney.
Meantime, California Attorney General Rob Bonta recently announced that his office would conduct an independent review of the shooting.
“Ultimately, we want justice for Sean and we want that justice to mean that this can’t happen to anyone else,” said Ashley Monterrosa, Sean’s sister.
NBC Bay Area has reached out to Vallejo police for comment, but have not received a statement yet.
Source: NBC Bay Area
Be First to Comment