WASHINGTON — Family and community members delivered a petition with Over 6,000 signatures to Mayor Muriel Bowser, demanding justice for Justin Robinson.
Justin Robinson, 26, was killed on Sept. 1 after police responded to a call for a minor crash with an injury in the drive-thru of a McDonald's in Southeast D.C.
Police Chief Pamela Smith said the responding officers found Robinson unconscious in his vehicle with a gun in his lap. Smith said an officer had pointed a gun into the vehicle through an open window. Upon waking up, police claim Robinson grabbed the officer's gun. In response, Smith said two officers shot him. Robinson was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police body camera showed Robinson grabbing an officer’s gun in the moments leading up to the shooting.
Robinson was an employee of the Attorney General’s Cure the Streets program.
His sister said Justin was constantly fighting for a safer community.
“Justin just started his nonprofit. He’s not here to fulfill, not here to secure the streets and stop violence.” Robinson's sister said.
Family, along with Harriet’s Wildest Dreams delivered over 6,000 petition signatures asking DC Government officials to push for more transparency from DC Police.
Joining them was Councilmember Trayon White, who is facing a legal battle over a bribery charge.
It was the councilmember's first time speaking at a public event.
“I’m disappointed in DC Police – in our city – about what happened that night. We could have done a better job at ensuring that Justin could be here today.” Councilmember White said.
The two officers who shot Robinson have been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into the shooting.
The family told WUSA9 no city officials, aside from Councilmember White, have offered their condolences.