Chicago cop charged with murder in black teen's death; video released

Protesters took to the streets of Chicago late Tuesday night after police released a graphic dash-cam video showing an officer shooting 17-year-old Laquan McDonald.

McDonald was killed in October 2014. The city’s mayor has called for peace.

The video has no audio, shows 17-year-old Laquan McDonald collapsing to the ground as he is gunned down by Officer Jason Van Dyke, 37, in the middle of the street on October 20, 2014.

“To watch a 17-year-old young man die in such a violent manner is deeply disturbing, and I have absolutely no doubt that this video will tear at the hearts of all Chicagoans,” said CookCountyState’s Attorney Anita Alvarez.

At the end of the seven-minute clip, McDonald -- who had been a suspect in a string of truck break-ins -- can be seen walking in the road as Van Dyke and his partner arrive in their squad car.

McDonald, who was said to be carrying a 3-inch knife, tries to avoid the car and head west as the officers exit their vehicle with their guns drawn.

Moments later, Van Dyke takes a step towards the teen, who is about 10-feet-away, and fires -- emptying his clip and striking him several times as he continues to advance forward towards him.

McDonald promptly jerks his body and spins around before crumpling to the ground. He can be seen writhing in pain as plumes of gun-smoke rise into the air.

Van Dyke, 37, was charged with first-degree murder on Tuesday -- which is the first time in history that a Chicago police officer has been charged with murder for an on-duty shooting.

McDonald’s family, which received a $5 million (Rs 33 crore) settlement from the city, did not want the video released, but said they understood the decision.

“We deeply appreciated the outpouring of love and support for Laquan,” the family said in a statement through their attorneys. “While we would prefer the video not be released, we understand a court has ordered otherwise.” 

They family has also appealed for calm, urging that those who view the video “don't resort to violence in Laquan's name”. 

Image: A demonstrator chants as he marches through the streets during protests in Chicago. Photograph: Jim Young/Reuters