Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox Shares Statement on the Death of Geo

Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox has released a statement on the death of George Floyd.

"George Floyd’s death is beyond tragic and further deepens the divides in a time that demands unity. As Americans, we must meet this moment with purpose that matches Mr. Floyd’s immeasurable sacrifice. Violence and looting are not acceptable nor are inaction and callousness. Although Minneapolis is many miles from Tuscaloosa, in our corner of the Nation, we will recommit to the principle that public safety and community trust are not mutually exclusive of each other. I believe in Tuscaloosa and I believe in the Tuscaloosa Police Department – Together, we will continue to demonstrate the “better angels of our nature” in protecting our city," Maddox said.

Floyd, a 46-year-old man, was a victim of police brutality in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Floyd died after Officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his windpipe for over eight minutes. Protests have broken out across the country as a response to Floyd's death.

A peaceful protest is planned in Tuscaloosa tonight. The event is set to begin at 5 p.m. outside the Federal Courthouse downtown.