The funeral for the 50-year-old man, who was fatally shot by a North Charleston police officer last week, took place on Saturday.
David Goldman / AP
CHARLESTON, South Carolina — Walter Scott was remembered Saturday with words by his brothers, a poem from his daughter, and the music of the church choir of which he was a member.
The funeral at W.O.R.D. Ministries Christian Center drew family from around the country to mourn the 50-year-old, who was killed last week by a North Charleston police officer. Relatives and close friends filled the Summerville, South Carolina church, while more than 100 other acquaintances and supporters waited outside. It was important for Scott's mother Judy, who is a minister, to have the service at the family church instead of a larger location.
"The thing that guides them is faith," said the Scott family's attorney, Chris Stewart, afterward.
In addition to their faith, the family has found comfort in the legacy Scott leaves behind, Stewart said. Another man may come to harm at the hands of police, but now, Stewart said, people will question if there's more to the story than the first official accounts.
"If that's what he has died to prove, I can tell you the family is fine with that," Stewart said.
Judy Scott, left, prays next to her husband, Walter Scott Sr., during the burial service for their son, Walter Scott.
David Goldman / AP
Though North Charleston Officer Michael Slager first claimed he shot at Scott in a struggle over the officer's taser, a bystander video showed otherwise. The footage shows Slager shooting eight times as Scott is at a distance running away. He was struck four times in the back as well as grazed by another bullet. Slager is now facing charges of murder.
Knowing the truth has brought relief and closure, said Lakecia Robinson, who attended the service and is a friend of one of Scott's sons.
"Of course, we're heartbroken because it happened," she said.
Speakers at the service also spoke of the ram in the bush, a biblical symbol that some have compared to the bystander video.
"There's always someone watching," Steven White explained. "God always makes a way for the truth to be revealed."
The flag-draped coffin — Scott served in the U.S. Coast Guard before an honorable discharge — was lifted toward the end of the service for mourners to say goodbye. A Dallas Cowboys towel and action figure were placed above him; he was a true fan, family said.
The choir sang of glory, and outside, the sun began to shine.
from BuzzFeed - USNews http://ift.tt/1ajqIN0
No comments:
Post a Comment