On April 13th, 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, a Black teenager from Kansas City, Missouri, was critically injured after being shot twice at a residence he mistakenly visited to pick up his siblings (NBC News). He was later released from the hospital after spending four days being treated for his injuries (FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV). The homeowner, an 84-year-old individual, was charged with two criminal counts related to the shooting (ABC News).
Despite the charges filed against the homeowner, protestors are demanding more justice for Yarl (The Kansas City Star). Halle Berry also voiced her frustration with the violence and demanded justice for the teenager (USA Today). Yarl’s family and attorney, Benjamin Crump, have also been seeking justice for him (KSHB, CNN).
However, there are still unanswered questions regarding the incident. Kansas City police did not seek charges against the homeowner, citing the “stand your ground” law (The Kansas City Star). Yarl’s family and lawyers argue that the law should not be used in this case (The New York Times).
Despite the ongoing investigation into the shooting, Yarl’s family is happy to have him back home and recovering (The Kansas City Star). The community is also coming together to support the family and seek justice for Yarl (KSHB).
This shooting highlights the continued violence and injustices faced by Black individuals in America. Yarl’s case adds to the growing list of incidents that have sparked protests and conversations about police brutality and systemic racism.
