Norfolk, Va. - India Beaty is the second child McKinley Beaty lost tragically.
“Two years ago prior, I lost a 21-year-old McKinley Beaty, Jr. to a shooting,” McKinley Beaty said. “Losing one feels like it’s enough. You just can’t take it no more. Then when it happens to the second one. It’s just a numbing feeling.”
According to Norfolk Police, the 25-year-old brandished a gun, which during their investigation police discovered was a non-firing replica gun. Police say she refused to comply with their demands before making a threatening motion with the gun. Both officers opened fire, killing Beaty.
“I know my daughter, no. If she waved it, she was letting it go, saying ‘okay’. The eyewitness that was actually with her said he didn’t see a gun. I heard so many stories,” McKinley Beaty explained.
Beaty says he suspects foul play. He plans to take legal action.
“I thought the officers was trained to fire when fired upon,” McKinley said.
He says he won’t have closure until he knows if this was a lawful shooting.
“That was my pride and joy right there,” McKinley explained.
Two officers shot their weapons during this incident.
The officers' names will not be released. They will be put on administrative leave pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
“Any loss of life is tragic,” stated Chief Goldsmith. “This morning’s events affect not only my officers and Ms. Beaty’s family members, but our entire community. My thoughts and prayers go out to Ms. Beaty’s loved ones and we appreciate the public’s patience as we continue this investigation.”
On Monday, police held a press conference to provide more details.
Anyone with information, is encouraged to call the Norfolk Police Detective Division at (757) 664-7023.
