07-08-2016, 05:11 PM
(07-08-2016, 03:43 PM)sally Wrote: When the cop asked him for his driver's license he told him he's carrying a firearm and has a permit for it at the same time that he was reaching for his wallet, according to Diamond. Now the cop yells don't reach for it not knowing if he's reaching for the gun or the wallet and gives him very little if no time to put his hands up and say "ok ok, I'm not reaching for it" before firing four shots into him. No one knows what lead up to it, but that would be my guess. He got scared and panicked even though the guy was probably being calm, but stupid for reaching for his back pocket after just telling the cop he had a gun.
That's my understanding from what Diamond has recounted; so far, she seems sharp and credible to me.
I don't know about Philando being stupid during the traffic stop. Maybe, maybe not. Concealed carry classes advise students to announce that they have a gun and a permit during interactions with police. IF Philando remembered or had his first opportunity to do so as he was calmly complying with the officer's request to show his license, I don't consider him stupid for not realizing that the cop (especially in gun-friendly Texas where a hell of a lot of people are legally carrying) would shit his pants and start shooting into the car.
Anyway, several of the students, parents, and teachers at the school where Philando worked have paid tribute to the man who they describe as very laid-back, respectful, and a popular role model for the kids. He was well-loved. His mother, uncle and girlfriend were interviewed again today; they're understandably outraged and heartbroken.
Sad situation, no matter what exactly led the cop to start shooting.