In March 2024, Miami police officer Kassandra Mercado shot and injured Donald Armstrong, who was experiencing a mental health crisis. Armstrong's family had called for assistance, but the situation escalated, leading to Mercado shooting him multiple times after he refused commands to drop a homemade weapon. The Miami-Dade County State Attorneyâs Office ruled Mercado's actions justified. Community backlash has raised concerns over police responses to mental health crises, with activists urging better training and protocols for officers handling such situations.
The family of 47-year-old Donald Armstrong called Miami police for help during his mental health crisis, resulting in Officer Kassandra Mercado shooting him six times.
Prosecutors have deemed Officer Mercado's actions justified as Armstrong was armed and refused commands, despite being tased twice before the shooting occurred.
The situation has ignited community outrage, with activists calling for better methods for police engagement with individuals battling mental health issues.
Community groups have rallied for changes in how police handle mental health crises, emphasizing the urgent need for improved training and tactics.
Collection
[
|
...
]