Key facts
- Approximately 100 people protested in Senatobia, Mississippi, over the police killing of a one-year-old boy.
- The child, Kohen Kartier Wiley, was shot and killed by a Senatobia police officer on June 14.
- The Mississippi Department of Public Safety is investigating the incident.
- Protesters are demanding the release of body-camera and security-camera footage.
- Authorities claim officers were responding to a call about stolen diapers, but the family disputes this account.
- Previous protests at the same Walmart location involved the deployment of tear gas by officers.
Approximately 100 people gathered outside a Walmart in Senatobia, Mississippi, to protest the police shooting death of one-year-old Kohen Kartier Wiley. The incident occurred on June 14 when a Senatobia police officer fired into a vehicle, killing the infant and injuring his mother, Vellesiya Wiley.
Authorities from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) stated that officers were responding to a call alleging the theft of diapers, and that the vehicle nearly struck an officer when attempting to flee. However, Wiley and some witnesses dispute this account, noting that the diapers were paid for and taking issue with the child being referred to as a "juvenile." The family and protesters are demanding full transparency, including the release of body-camera and security-camera footage, which the DPS has stated will not be released during the ongoing investigation by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation.
Friday's protest, led by chants such as "Justice for him! Kohen Wiley," saw demonstrators march through the town, encountering law enforcement blockades that altered their planned route to the police station. Despite the heat and law enforcement presence, protesters continued their demonstration, with some local business employees and fast-food workers showing support. The family friend Tyesha Cox expressed frustration with the community's treatment during the protests. Following the march, the family planned to attend a viewing for Kohen, with a town hall featuring community organizers and activists scheduled for later that day. Kohen's funeral is set for Saturday.
Sgt Hunter Foster of the Senatobia police department has been identified as one of the officers present at the shooting. This protest is one of several demanding answers and justice for Kohen Wiley.