Sniper Shootings Kill Five Policemen in Dallas
Tragedy hit American society as a lone attacker killed five police officers from the Dallas Police Department during a demonstration attended by hundreds of Americans.
Dallas Police identified the dead attacker as Micah Johnson, a 25-year-old ex-Army soldier, who is believed to have planned the vicious attack.
The Dallas protests quickly turned to tragedy as Johnson launched the ambush by shooting five officers. A deadly standoff followed, causing distress among the protesters as they scampered for safety.
Dallas police responded to the scene and used a bomb squad robot that resulted in the death the gunman after negotiations failed.
This is considered to be the single deadliest day for law enforcement since September 11, 2001.
The Victims
The five slain officers were identified on Friday. They were identified as Dallas Police Officers Lorne Ahrens, Michael Smith, Michael Krol, Patrick Zamarripa and DART Police officer Brent Thompson.
Dallas Police Officer Lorne Ahrens is a 14-year veteran of the department. While Michael Smith is a 27-year veteran.
According to Dallas Police, at least 10 officers were shot by the sniper and one officer was shot in a shootout at the parking garage.
Protestors said that police officers worked to protect them from the sniper, putting themselves at risk to protect the civilians.
Barack Obama Reacts to Dallas Shootings
In a statement while on his trip in Poland, Barack Obama issued statements after the shootings in Dallas.
President Barack Obama said the nation was “horrified” after what he called “a vicious, calculated and despicable attack on law enforcement” in Dallas.
The US president vowed justice by saying there is no possible justification for any violence against law enforcement.
“Anyone involved in the senseless murders will be held fully accountable. Justice will be done.” – President Obama
The Protests
The peaceful protests were triggered by the killings of two black men by police in other states, in two days. Americans launched protests nationwide demanding answers and justice.
In Baton Rouge, Louisiana, protesters gathered outside a convenience store where Alton Sterling was fatally shot Tuesday while police tackled him in a parking lot.
In Minnesota, a crowd of protesters assembled near the spot where the police officer killed Philando Castile in a car Wednesday.
