The tragic death of Tyre Nichols at the hands of out-of-control Memphis police has touched the hearts and minds of Memphians and vast numbers of people, for that matter, around the world. How have the announced candidates for Memphis mayor reacted?
Voluminously, it would seem — in public appearances, on social media, and elsewhere. Here is a brief sampling of what they have said.
Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner: “My heartfelt condolences are expressed to the family and friends of Tyre Nichols. I am sad and angry about his tragic death.
“I am a second-generation law enforcement officer, and I am disgusted by what we all saw captured on video. This horrible incident tarnishes the badge that I wear, and many other good officers wear every day. I will do everything in my power to prevent another parent from having to bury their child in such a senseless and tragic way.”
Downtown Memphis Commission CEO Paul Young: “On behalf of our family, I pause today and become fully present with my deepest sympathy and condolences for the family and all who are mourning the tragic loss of Tyre Nichols — a young man with much promise who is gone too soon. Let’s keep the Nichols family in prayer as they enter this uncharted territory.”
Businessman J.W. Gibson: “The police officers responsible for the senseless and fatal beating of Tyre Nichols have been appropriately charged with second-degree murder. … As a lifelong Memphian, I know that the actions of those few [are] absolutely not a reflection of the dedication, heart, or humanity of the overwhelming majority of the men and women of the Memphis Police Department. As these officers await their days in court, we must come together as a community.”
School Board chair Michelle McKissack: “My heart breaks for Tyre’s sweet mother, family, and son. Together, we must honor his life and demand systemic change so this never happens again.”
State House Democratic Leader Karen Camper: “Like so many of my fellow Memphians I watched with horror as five Memphis police officers savagely beat Tyre Nichols. And I am one of the thousands of Memphians and people around the nation and the world who have followed this tragic event who are offering their sincere condolences to the Nichols family. This act of violence and abuse of power has no place in our city nor in our police department.”
Former County Commissioner and NAACP President Van Turner: “We appreciate the city’s quick action and transparency thus far in the case of Tyre Nichols as more officers and first responders are brought to justice. Tyre’s mother has called for a bill named after her son which would seek to emphasize a duty to intervene and render aid which was not done for her son. We must stand with her in this fight for justice and reform. … [W]e must disrupt the culture which allows this to happen. We must not forget Tyre’s death and the way that he died, and as mayor of Memphis, I vow to not allow Tyre Nichols’ death be in vain.”
