Trigger Warning: This article contains footage that may be distressing to some readers.
The San Diego Police Department (SDPD) has released bodycam footage showing an officer fatally shooting 16-year-old Konoa Wilson.
In a Facebook post, the SDPD stated:
“The videos contain graphic images and language. Viewer discretion is advised.”
The department emphasized its commitment to transparency and openness with the public, adding, “The following video is from a critical incident involving an officer-involved shooting on January 28.”
The footage shows Wilson at a downtown train station when he is approached by two individuals. One of them pulls out a gun, prompting Wilson to flee in the opposite direction. As he runs, he turns a corner and encounters Officer Daniel Gold. Gold’s bodycam captures the moment Wilson emerges from the station just before the officer fires at him, then announces, “San Diego Police.”
The video, posted to Facebook, was shared as part of the department’s effort to remain transparent with the public.
It was reported that a firearm was found on Wilson while he was receiving medical treatment. Gold was in the area responding to an unrelated incident at the time.
Wilson was given medical treatment and transported to a local hospital, where he later passed away.
Police Chief Scott Wahl commented, “We understand that incidents like this have a profound impact and can stir emotions and concerns among family members, the officer involved, the department, and the community as a whole.”
“Although it’s never easy to view this kind of footage, our department remains dedicated to transparency and to conducting a fair, thorough, and independent investigation.”
Tributes for Konoa Wilson have been pouring in, with a candlelight vigil held in his honor on Friday, February 21.
“He’ll never get the chance to get married, graduate high school, go to college, or have kids, and it’s senseless. He was a good boy,” said Konoa’s cousin, Lila Silva.
“Anyone could be turning that corner. Any one of us could be shot dead just for turning that corner,” she added.
Konoa’s father, Steven Wilson, expressed his heartbreak: “We were together every day of his life. This is a total nightmare; it can’t be real. How could a highly trained officer make such a mistake?”
In the wake of the tragedy, the family has set up a GoFundMe to support their efforts.
