A black man, identified as George Floyd, died in Minneapolis, Minnesota in the United States on Monday, May 25.
Despite repeated pleas that he could not breathe, he was pinned to the ground by a police officer using his knee.
A video recording of the incident showed a police officer on top of Floyd.
The officer, later identified as Derek Chauvin, appears to ignore pleas from bystanders, as well as Floyd himself to take his knee off the man's neck.
Later footage also showed two other officers behind a police car, holding Floyd down.
The incident caused much anger within the Minneapolis community, and soon protesters took to the streets.
In the morning and early-afternoon, activists, neighbourhood groups, and community organisers created memorials at the intersection, with messages such as "No Justice, No Peace", "RIP", and "Remember His Name".
Then, in the late-afternoon and evening, thousands arrived at the scene, bringing with them signs and bullhorns, according to KARE.
Many wore masks while organisers reportedly distributed face coverings to those who did not have them, in light of the Covid-19 situation.
Then, slightly after 6pm, organisers began the march to the Third Precinct, where officers in riot gear deployed tear gas on the crowds.
Here are some photos of the clashes between protesters and police by local Minneapolis media companies:
The protests have gone on for three nights as of May 29, 2020.
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - MAY 28: Protesters stand in front of the 3rd precinct police building as it burns during a protest on May 28, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Today marks the third day of ongoing protests after the police killing of George Floyd. Four Minneapolis police officers have been fired after a video taken by a bystander was posted on social media showing Floyd's neck being pinned to the ground by an officer as he repeatedly said, "I can’t breathe". Floyd was later pronounced dead while in police custody after being transported to Hennepin County Medical Center. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
On Thursday, Target closed 24 of their outlets in Minneapolis after some took to looting the stores.
Here is a statement from Target:
“We are heartbroken by the death of George Floyd and the pain it is causing our community. At this time, we have made the decision to close a number of our stores until further notice. Our focus will remain on our team members’ safety and helping our community heal.”
A few hours ago, reports emerged of a police precinct being set on fire.
Here is the scene near the station.
The City of Minneapolis also tweeted out the possibility of explosives being in the building.
US President Donald Trump also weighed in on the issue.
The National Guard has sent 500 soldiers to Minneapolis.
"A key objective is to ensure fire departments are able to respond to calls."
The four police officers in question have been fired from their jobs.
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Image from Facebook, Getty and SarasidnerCNN