Louisville Police Chief Fired Following Death of Unarmed Black Man

After a weekend of controversial protests, Monday morning saw another unarmed black man killed. Louisville Metro Police Chief Steve Conrad has lost his job following this incident.

Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer announced the termination of the police chief “after learning that two officers involved in the fatal shooting of a black business owner had not activated their body cameras,” reported CBS News. The police have placed both officers on administrative leave, according to Fischer.

“This type of institutional failure will not be tolerated. Accordingly, I have relieved Steve Conrad of his duties as chief of Louisville Metro Police Department,” Fischer said.

The authorities have identified the victim as 53-year-old David McAtee. Many knew him as “the BBQ man” since he owned a barbecue near the shooting scene.

According to Fox News, Conrad had agreed to resign from his position by the end of June. This follows the police killing of Breonna Taylor. Now, this incident has cut short his tenure after serving as chief of police for less than 10 years.

Fox News added that “scandal and low officer morale” marked his tenure. Conrad gained his position as police chief in 2012. According to local reporters, Conrad will still receive his pension after termination.

The Incident

McAtee died after officials said that LMPD investigators and the Kentucky National Guard “returned fire” after someone fired at the soldiers and officers.

Deputy Chief Robert Schroeder said the two officers involved have violated department policy by not wearing or activating the bodycams.

“We will review the entire incident to determine if there were any other policy violations that occurred,” Schroeder said. “I assure you, there will be discipline for failing to utilize our cameras.”

Fox News reported that a family member said McAtee died “trying to shield his niece from the gunfire.”

Representative Charles Booker of Kentucky said that a devastating blow came to their community once again. “Not only are we fighting for justice for Breonna Taylor, but we have lost another treasured Louisvillian, Mr. David McAtee,” he said.

“While we demand accountability and know that structural and policy changes must be made, I am committed to standing with the people of our city to build trust and a path forward. In the midst of our pain today, a powerful display of unity was shown as officers put down their weapons and the community locked arms. Let's build on that, demand justice and heal together,” he added.

McAtee's family said many know him as a “community pillar” and “a good person.”

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