The U.S. Justice department will lead the investigation into the death of a black man shot multiple times by police during a confrontation at a Louisiana convenience store, NBC News reported.
Graphic cellphone video, recorded by a witness and by the store’s owner, appears to show Alton Sterling, 37, tackled and shot as two officers pin him down before he’s killed. Authorities said he was armed.
At a vigil held Wednesday night, A local minister also called for people to raise their voices, while Sterling’s aunt called for peace.
"I'm mad. I'm so mad," Sandra Sterling said. "But I'm not angry enough to hurt nobody. I'm not angry enough to go out in the street."
Sterling’s death sparked protests against police brutality in Baton Rouge. His family and the local NAACP branch called for an independent review.
Two officers, four-year veteran Blane Salamoni and three-year veteran Howie Lake II, were put on paid administrative leave "per standard procedure" as the investigation continues.