Anthony Lowe, a double amputee from California, was shot and killed by police on January 31st, 2023, sparking widespread outrage and calls for answers. The incident occurred in a residential area in California and was reportedly the result of a police response to a call about a man with a knife.
According to eyewitnesses, Lowe, who was confined to a wheelchair, was shot multiple times by police after he allegedly threatened them with a knife. The police have stated that they used lethal force after Lowe failed to comply with their commands and posed a threat to their safety.
Lowe’s family, however, disputes this account and claims that he was not a serious threat to the officers due to his physical disadvantage. They have called for a full investigation into the incident and demanded justice for their loved one.
The incident has sparked outrage and criticism from activists, who argue that the police’s use of lethal force was unjustified and highlights the systemic issues in law enforcement’s approach to people with disabilities.
The incident has also led to calls for better training for police officers in how to handle encounters with individuals with disabilities. The National Disability Rights Network has stated that individuals with disabilities are disproportionately affected by police violence and that better training and awareness could help reduce these incidents.
The case is currently under investigation, and the involved officers have been placed on administrative leave. Officials have stated that they will thoroughly review all the evidence, including body camera footage and witness statements, to determine what happened and whether the use of lethal force was justified.
Lowe’s death has sparked nationwide attention and is seen, once again, as a tragic reminder of the need for better policing practices and improved training for law enforcement officers on how to handle encounters with individuals with disabilities. As the investigation continues, the family and friends of Anthony Lowe wait for answers and hope for justice for their loved one.