Graphic video of the fatal shooting launched by DPD to combat rumors on social networks

DETROIT – Protests erupted in Detroit after 20-year-old Hakim Littleton was shot dead just after 12:30 p.m. M. By the police.

An angry crowd gathered and marched into the 12th Precinct after rumors of Detroit police shooting an unarmed man spread like wildfire.

That night, Police Chief James Craig released a video showing Littleton shooting officers first.

According to authorities, members of the Detroit police gang squad approached Darnell Sylvester. He was wanted on a federal drug order and was released without incident.

Next to Sylvester was Littleton, who pulled out a pistol and twice shot an advancing officer. Littleton was killed almost instantly when officers shot him.

Craig said a witness heard Littleton say he was not going to let Sylvester be taken by the police.

Body camera images show Littleton twice shooting the advancing officer, missing both times. The officer was unfazed and attempted to attack Littleton before other officers shot him. Craig described the officer as an American hero.

“Despite being shot, and you saw it with your own eyes, he kept moving forward,” Craig said. “He doesn’t even have time to pull out his gun. He wanted to serve, endangering his own life. “

The chief said the officer is a little shaken when Littleton pointed his head.

All Friday afternoon, social media posts appeared saying that none of that happened, that Littleton was unarmed and killed for the style of police execution.

“I was deeply concerned about the misinformation,” said Craig. “I have repeatedly asked for an opportunity.”

Craig said the incident was part of an investigation into a street party shooting that injured eight people.

The full press conference can be viewed here.