AKRON, Ohio — Akron is holding a city-wide day of mourning Wednesday for the death of 25-year-old Jayland Walker.
“I know this tragedy has profoundly and deeply impacted the city, but tomorrow’s day is about mourning for Jayland and keeping his family in our thoughts and prayers,” Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan said during his daily press conference Tuesday morning. “But also demonstrating what I think is an abundant amount of compassion and humility across the community for him and his family as they go through this grief and mourning.”
It comes as funeral services for Walker are scheduled to take place at the Akron Civic Theatre starting at 10 a.m.
“Tomorrow is about that day of mourning for Jayland and his family,” Mayor Horrigan added. “Know that all of us are mourning with you and grieving with you and will help you get through this process.”
Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett echoed Mayor Horrigan’s statements.
“The Walker family, our condolences continue to go out to them and prayers,” Chief Mylett said. “It’s been difficult on this police department. It’s been difficult on this community. We will get through this together. There are many, many conversations that are already taking place as we move forward from this event.”
Walker was shot and killed when eight Akron police officers opened fire amid a chase on June 27. Police say Walker had fired a shot at one point during the pursuit, but was unarmed at the time officers opened fire. A gun, however, was later found in Walker's vehicle, according to police.
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