Raw Bodycam Video of Bedford Twp. Police - Ta'Kiya Young Shooting

* (Disclaimer: This video content is intended for educational and informational purposes only, This video is public record and falls under fair use) *

Statement From Blendon Township Chief John Belford (Abridged):

"Last week, there was a tragedy in our community. In a parking lot outside a local grocery store, a theft suspect drove her car into one of my officers and the officer fired a single shot through the windshield. She was struck by the bullet and later died.

I immediately requested the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) to conduct an independent investigation into the incident. As a result, our department has no role in that investigation, and we will defer any policy or employee discipline review until BCI has completed its work.

I placed the officer who fired the shot on administrative leave. Out of an abundance of caution, I also placed the other officer on administrative leave.

Less than 24 hours later, I released a detailed video statement explaining the facts of what happened. We sent it to the news media and posted it on social media, where it was viewed by thousands of people. Many agencies refuse to issue comments following a use of force incident, but I wanted the community to know the basic details as soon as they could be verified.

Over last weekend, our department of 14 sworn officers worked on behind the scenes efforts to ensure that two planned demonstrations could be held safely for all involved. Thankfully, the demonstrations were peaceful and grieving voices could be heard..."

"This was a tragedy. Ms. Young’s family is understandably very upset and grieving. While none of us can fully understand the depths of their pain, all of us can remember them in our prayers and give them the time and space to deal with this heartbreaking turn of events..."

"A lawsuit is very likely to be filed about this incident. There may be other legal proceedings as well. That’s why we’re very limited in what we can say. We’re being as transparent and forthcoming as we can, given these significant legal constraints. As a result, we don’t anticipate making any further statements until official actions are taken."