News / Society

National Guard activated in Baltimore as protests turn violent

Tuesday, 28 April 2015 10:04 AM [ Last Update: Tuesday, 28 April 2015 1:37 PM ]

Tense moments witnessed by one photographer as protests turned to looting in Baltimore.

US Attorney General Loretta Lynch has condemned the violence erupted in Baltimore, Maryland, over the police killing of a young African-American man as a state of emergency is declared in the city.

Lynch condemned "senseless acts of violence" in Baltimore and said on Monday that the Justice Department "stands ready to provide any assistance that might be helpful."

Violence erupted in Baltimore on Monday as hundreds of unknown rioters looted stores, burned buildings and injured at least 15 police officers following the funeral of 25-year-old Freddie Gray, who died on April 19, one week after white police officers broke his spine when he was in custody.

"Those who commit violent actions, ostensibly in protest of the death of Freddie Gray, do a disservice to his family, to his loved ones, and to legitimate peaceful protesters who are working to improve their community for all its residents," Lynch said.

The new attorney general also met with President Barack Obama on Monday to discuss the crisis and told the president that she would continue monitoring the situation in the city.

"In the days ahead, I intend to work with leaders throughout Baltimore to ensure that we can protect the security and civil rights of all residents. And I will bring the full resources of the Department of Justice to bear in protecting those under threat, investigating wrongdoing, and securing an end to violence," she said in a statement.

On Monday, Maryland’s Governor Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency in Baltimore, activating the National Guard as clashes were underway between riot police and angry protesters.

In addition, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake placed the city under curfew starting Tuesday.

Following a violent night, Baltimore’s streets looked like a war zone early on Tuesday after buildings and cars were set on fire and a dozen businesses were either looted or damaged. The destruction was to such a degree that children could not go to school on Tuesday.

AT/AGB

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