Urban Beach Weekend in Miami has caused a backlash among residents and political leaders in the city. After a deadly weekend where one man was killed and three police officers were wounded, some have called for an end to the weekend festival which attracts black college-aged vacationers and hip-hop’s biggest stars.
However, the racial element seems to have played a key factor in how small disturbances eventually turned violent.
Another video has been released by a couple who shot footage of the 12 police who unloaded 100 rounds into a car driven by 20-year-old Raymond Heisse. Heisse was pronounced dead, and police did not find a single weapon on him once his car was searched. Miami police also shot four innocent bystanders during the shootout.
Moreover, Miami police also intimidated those who shot video with their cell phones. Narciss Benoit and his girlfriend, Ericka Davis, were several feet away from the shootout when Benoit began filming with his cell phone.
After capturing the murder, police officers yelled expletives towards Benoit and Davis. The two retreated to their vehicle and an officer followed them, pointing a gun as Benoit yelled that he was unarmed. The officer grabbed Benoit, threw him on the ground and slammed his cell phone to the pavement. Benoit’s cell phone was destroyed, but he hid the memory card under his tongue.
The police officers have been placed on administrative leave until an investigation takes place. But while Miami residents are determined to put an end to Urban Beach Weekend, they should concentrate on the violence that was provoked by the murderers who are killing black men and hiding behind a badge .–amir shaw
Check out Benoit’s shocking video.
A.R. Shaw is the sports and music director for rolling out magazine. He is also the author of the young adult novel, 23.
