Shantel Davis, 23

Brooklyn, New York
June 14, 2012

Agencies: New York Police Department NYPD

Cause of death: Shooting

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Last updated: almost 4 years ago

Overview

23 year old Shantel Davis was fatally shot by an NYPD officer in East Flatbush on June 14, 2012.

Around 5:40PM, The New York Daily News reports, plainclothes cops spotted Shantel Davis driving erratically in a Toyota Camry she'd allegedly stolen at gunpoint earlier that month. After running a series of red lights during a brief pursuit, she crossed a double yellow line at East 38th Street where, according to NYPD spokesman Paul Browne, she crashed into a minivan.

As cops approached Davis-- who had an extensive criminal history, including 8 arrests (without a conviction), according to police-- she attempted to open the passenger side door. Acording to police, a cop was hit by the door and pushed backwards. Davis then reportedly went back to the driver's side and put the car in reverse, hitting the gas.

Gun drawn, Atkins attempted to manhandle Shantel out of the car as she pleaded for her life with her hands in the air. Atkins eventually dragged her out, but not before putting a bullet in her chest.

According to Davis supporters, Shantel Davis was never convicted of a crime and was taking steps towards
professional development while Detective Atkins was known for intimidating and using excessive force, in 12 years on the force accumlating a record including six federal civil rights cases which cost NYC $224,000 and numerous compalints of misconduct registered with the Civilian Review Board.

At the time of her death, Shantel was facing charges of attempted murder and kidnapping, but she never received a trial before a jury of her peers. Instead, critics charge that she was executed in broad daylight in the street.

Community and Family Efforts

#SayHerName

June 2012 Prayer vigil and protest

July 2012 Walk and Rally for justice for Shantel Davis

August 2012 Demand Grand Jury

May 2013 Sister speaking at 'Mothers Cry for Justice' rally

June 2013 Rally and Protest

July 2014 Hoops for Justice basketball game

June 2015 Rememberance Protest

August 2015 Vigil