Family of 12-year-old boy shot, killed by Philadelphia police speaks out during vigil

The grandparents of Thomas “TJ” Siderio say their grandson would have turned 13 on Monday. They are saying the boy was murdered by the Philadelphia police.

“I used to be up the road on the diner with my brother. I ran out and began crying such as you will not consider,” recalled Siderio’s grandfather, Thomas Lawler.

“I need my grandson to relaxation in peace and I simply wish to go on,” mentioned his grandmother Mary Helen Siderio Henning.

The 2 grandparents gathered close to the place the taking pictures occurred to carry a vigil Monday night.

SEE ALSO: Commissioner: Philadelphia police officer who shot, killed 12-year-old to be dismissed

Based on police officers, 4 plainclothes officers in an unmarked automobile had been conducting surveillance whereas responding to social media posts involving a gun.

The officers allege they noticed two younger males, together with one recognized as Siderio, on the road nook with one among them holding a gun. Subsequent, these officers report they moved their automobile close to the 2 males and turned on their emergency crimson and blue lights.

A short while later, the officers say they heard gunfire and a bullet got here by way of their again window. Because of this, two officers exited the automobile and fired two photographs towards Siderio who authorities mentioned was nonetheless holding a gun.

It is reported Siderio then ran away and one of many officers chased him, firing two extra occasions. Siderio was struck as soon as within the again and was killed.

However on Monday his household insists TJ didn’t have a gun.

“My grandson didn’t have a gun. Okay? I need this to finish,” mentioned his grandmother.

Within the days following the lethal taking pictures, Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw introduced that the officer who shot the boy could be fired after 30 days.

Outlaw declined to say the precise violations however mentioned the division has guidelines towards extreme use of power and permitting for a proportionate response to the resistance being met.

The officers concerned within the taking pictures haven’t been recognized.

In the meantime, relations say TJ was killed whereas he was attempting to get away.

“You could possibly have tackled him. You did not have to shoot him,” mentioned his grandfather.

The case has been turned over to Philadelphia District Legal professional Larry Krasner. No expenses have been filed right now.