Family demands justice after Prince George’s County police fatally shoots man inside Suitland apartment
OXON HILL, Md. (DC News Now) — The family of a man who died after Prince George’s County police shot him is speaking out Wednesday. This comes days after investigators released body camera video of the shooting at a Suitland apartment in February.
The family of 31-year-old Melvin Jay says he was a loving father, brother, cousin and friend. They believe the Prince George’s County Department’s (PGPD) officer’s actions were not justified and they plan on filing a civil suit.
“Melvin Jay was one of those persons who just had a hoard of positive vibes around him. He loved his family dearly,” Melvin Jay’s cousin, Malcom Jay, said.
A month since the incident, many filled the room at A Clarke Law for a press conference in collaboration with advocacy group, Harriet’s Wildest Dreams. The family says they’re still trying to wrap their head around what happened.
“The pain we feel is immeasurable. And the questions swirling in our minds are endless. Our grief is raw, our anger is justified and our resolve is unwavering,” said Melvin Jay’s cousin, Leonard Lee Jr.
Police responded to the apartment complex on the 5100 block of Suitland Rd. on Feb. 1 for an alleged break-in. The incident ended in officer Braxton Shelton firing his weapon one time which killed Melvin Jay. Officials say a gun was found inside Jay’s pocket and another by the sink.
On Monday the Maryland Attorney General’s Office released the body-worn camera footage. The video shows the moment Shelton entered the apartment, told Jay to put his hands up and fired the fatal shot.
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Investigators later learned Jay was a resident at the home.
In a recorded statement, Police Chief Malik Aziz says the lease holder, who called 911, did not inform the dispatcher he knew two people including Melvin Jay were in the home.
“We have to make sure that this incident doesn’t happen in vain and someone learns from this, so that a moment like this doesn’t happen again,” said District 7 county Councilmember Krystal Oriadha. “No matter the circumstances, he did not have to die.”
The family is being represented by A Clarke Law Firm.
“We’re always told, ‘think before you act and react so you won’t regret your decision. Or make a decision that cannot be repaired,'” Jade Mathis with A Clare Law, said. “That rule should not be an exception just because you’re wearing a uniform or a badge.”
The family hopes to get justice for Melvin Jay and for anyone who may have lost their loved ones in the hands of police.
“We will honor Melvin’s memory by seeking justice and by striving to create a world where tragedies like this never happen again,” Lee said.
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Shelton was placed on paid leave since the incident.
DC News Now reached out to PGPD for comment but was referred to the Maryland Attorney General’s Office that is handling the investigation, but we did not hear back in time for publication.
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