Seven Police Officers Injured in Baltimore Unrest, One Unconscious

Seven police officers were injured when protesters and officers clashed in downtown Baltimore on April 27. Captain Eric Kowalczyk, Baltimore police spokesman, said during a press conference that one officer is unconscious and others suffered broken bones. Protesters were throwing rocks and bricks when the group attacked officers “without provocation,” he said. He described the group as “outrageous criminals” and “lawless individuals.”

He also said police will do all they can to restore order and protect the safety of the businesses and people who live in the in the Mondawmin Mall area. That includes using tear gas and pepper balls, he said.

Police dispatched to the mall flyers circulated of a “purge” event organized by teenagers, according to local media. “Purge” events are based on the movie of the same name. The mall and other local businesses closed amid concerns of violence.

The unrest happened the same day as Freddie Gray’s funeral, which was not far from the mall. Gray suffered spinal cord injuries during or after his April 12 arrest by Baltimore police and died a week later. Local authorities are investigating the circumstances of his arrest, and protesters have been marching since Gray’s death seeking answers. Credit: YouTube/Baltimore Police