Citizens protest after shooting involving a police officer in Delhi in which one person was killed

DELHI, Louisiana (KNOE) – People in Delhi are demanding justice after a police officer-involved shooting on August 11, 2024.

The protests have been going on since Monday, August 19th, and will continue until Friday, August 23rd.

Friends and family are demanding justice for 47-year-old Rodrick Edmond, who was shot and killed in the 7200 block of Highway 17 in Delhi.

Tomika Perkins, Edmonds' sister, said he suffered from mental illness and tried to get help from police.

“Instead of helping him, they followed him at least two miles beyond their jurisdiction and shot him multiple times, killing him,” Perkins says.

Perkins says she is protesting along with the rest of his family and friends because they want answers.

“I just want to know why. Why? My brother didn't deserve this. He was a good man, so why,” says Perkins.

A press release from the Louisiana State Police stated that officers from the Delhi Police Department contacted Edmond shortly before 11 p.m. because they suspected he was operating a vehicle in a suspicious manner in their parking lot.

The officers then approached him and ordered him to stop, but Edmond refused and left the scene.

According to authorities, they chased him until he stopped and Edmond got out of his car with a knife, after which an altercation ensued.

Officers then shot Edmond and attempted to administer first aid to him, but he later succumbed to his injuries.

RELATED CONTENT: LSP releases further details of fatal police-involved shooting in Delhi

We have reached out to Delhi Police, but they are unable to comment until the investigation is complete.

“I see situations like this happen, but I never thought it would happen to someone I love,” says Shaquyla Baker, Edmonds’ stepdaughter.

Baker says what she and her siblings will miss about him.

“When this happens in the middle of the night, we will miss his presence the most. We can't get that back,” says Shaquyla Baker.

Shabre Baker, also Edmonds' stepdaughter, thanks the community for supporting her father.

“The community support means everything. It really shows that everyone cared about Hot Rod, and I truly believe he would be very proud of Delhi and everyone in the community,” says Shabre Baker.

Perkins explains what the next steps are for her family after the protests.

“Whatever we have to do to get justice for my brother, we will not stop until we get justice for my brother,” Perkins said.

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