LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Protests were spiraling out of control across much of the country Thursday evening over the death of George Floyd, a black Minnesota man who died in police custody.
Demonstrators in Minnesota set fire to a police precinct. In Columbus, protesters shattered windows of the Ohio Statehouse. In Denver, police confirmed that several gunshots were fired amid protests, and in Louisville, police fired tear gas at protesters.
Fueled by a lack of criminal charges, protests erupt nationwide over George Floyd’s death
President Donald Trump tweeted late on Thursday, blaming local politicians in Minnesota for the unrest.
I can’t stand back & watch this happen to a great American City, Minneapolis. A total lack of leadership. Either the very weak Radical Left Mayor, Jacob Frey, get his act together and bring the City under control, or I will send in the National Guard & get the job done right.....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 29, 2020
However, in Las Vegas, a more peaceful demonstration was seen on Las Vegas Boulevard.
About a hundred people walked the boulevard to express their frustration and anger but also to remember Floyd.
The group kneeled in front of a Las Vegas police area command, located on Las Vegas Boulevard, for seven minutes – the reported time a Minnesota officer held a knee to Floyd’s head.
13 Action News saw a few members of the group shout obscenities at local police, but overall no violence or arrests were reported.
Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak released the following on his social media account Thursday:
What happened to men like George Floyd - and to the many others whose experiences we may not see go viral on social media - is unacceptable. George Floyd should be alive today.
— Governor Sisolak (@GovSisolak) May 29, 2020
And Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Sheriff Joe Lambardo also released the following on his social media:
The death of Mr. Floyd is deeply disturbing. The officers' actions and inaction are inconsistent with the training and protocols of our profession and the LVMPD.
I can assure you the LVMPD will strive each day to continue to build your trust.
— Joseph Lombardo (@Sheriff_LVMPD) May 28, 2020
Thursday's organizers said they have also planned another event on Saturday at the Downtown Container Park.
