His name is Ralph, and the family is seeking justice for him.
According to the Kansas Defender, Ralph Yarl–a 16 year old Black boy–was shot twice by a white man in North Kansas City after accidentally ringing the doorbell of the wrong home while attempting to pick up his two young sibling. The white man reportedly shot Ralph in the head through the glass door, then when Yarl was already bleeding out on the ground, shot him again.
Ralph’s aunt posted a video on social media explaining the incident. “This was not an ‘error’; this was a hate crime. You don’t shoot a child in the head because he rang your doorbell. The fact that the police said it was an ‘error’ is why America is the way it is,” said Dr. Faith Spoonmore, Ralph’s aunt.
The video was shared by thousands of users, including comedian D.L. Hugley. (click next arrow)
Reports indicate that the white man was taken to the police headquarters briefly to provide a statement but was released shortly after without charge. Yarl’s family is outraged that the perpetrator has not been held accountable.
According to Dr. Spoonmore, “This man intended to kill an innocent child simply because he rang the doorbell of the wrong house. He looked him in the face and shot him… and the individual is free to go about his day as if he did a great deed. While my nephew Ralph Yarl is a great kid, an intelligent kid, a black boy is left with so many broken pieces.”
Lee Merritt, a nationally recognized civil rights attorney also shared the video and also shared the story to his followers. He went on to talk about Ralph.
“Ralph is a junior in High School. He loves music and plays the bass clarinet. He is loved by his family and community and he has a bright bright future,” Merritt stated. He then added, “He didn’t deserve what happened to him. We won’t stand for it. We are coming for justice.”
Benjamin Crump, another attorney who is known for civil rights defense and activism also spoke on the shooting. He pleads to his followers, ‘Please get involved and demand accountability! 🙏🏾”
Lee Merritt left a comment stating, “we’re on our way.” Attorney Merritt also shared another post confirming that he has picked up the case.
In his statement, he said, “We are going to marshall every resource available as we prepare to force a broken criminal justice system to do right by #RalphYarl. #itsonus“
Civil Rights activist Shaun King revealed that he helped the family secure both attorney Lee Merritt and attorney Ben Crump so that they can get justice.
A protest is currently in effect today, as community members continue to demand justice for Ralph Yarl. Protesters have gathered around on the street in front of the shooters home. (Video via Hollywood Unlocked.)
The Yarl family is urging supporters to help spread awareness about the case and bring attention to the issue of racial violence in America.
Thankfully, Ralph is still alive but he is in critical condition. While he is fighting for his life, the community is asking that we all fight for his justice.
How can you help?
Use the contact information below to demand Prosecutor Zachary Thompson make an immediate arrest and bring the appropriate charges:
Building: James S. Rooney Justice Center
Address: 11 South Water Street
Liberty, Missouri 64068
Telephone: 816-736-8300
Fax: 816-736-8301
Email: prosecutor@claycopa.com
You can also help Ralph and his family financially through their GoFundMe page. The family is asking for assistance with medical expenses. They’ve raised over $100,000 so far, and have a goal of $500,000.
It’s hard to not think this is a hate crime but we’re sure the shooter’s defense will be that the young boy was trespassing but if that was the case, why shoot him a second time while he was already on the ground?
We’ll be sure to keep y’all updated on this case. In the meantime, be safe—continue to look out for yourselves and each other.
Sending prayers that Ralph will pull through and completely recover. #JusticeForRalph
