Vigil Planned to Honor Man Fatally Shot by Police in Redditch
A solemn vigil is set to take place in Redditch to commemorate the life of Marcus Meade, who tragically lost his life during a confrontation with armed police. The vigil, scheduled in memory of the father of two, will be held at Fownhope Close, where the fatal incident occurred on Christmas Eve.
Family and community members are invited to gather between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM GMT this Tuesday at the site of the shooting to pay their respects by lighting candles in honor of Marcus Meade. The loss of Marcus has left his family reeling, with his father, Anthony Meade, expressing profound devastation over the heartbreaking event.
“Marcus was a beautiful kid, despite his struggles. He had a good side to him that shone through,” Anthony Meade shared. He recounted Marcus’s challenges with mental health, particularly during the holiday season and around his birthday, describing how his son would experience emotional breakdowns due to not being able to see his children. Anthony emphasized that Marcus was crying out for help in those moments of distress.
According to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), negotiations were attempted with Marcus Meade, who was armed with a knife during the fatal encounter. The IOPC investigation revealed that distraction devices and at least one Taser were deployed by officers before the fatal shot was fired. West Mercia Police refrained from commenting on the ongoing investigation out of respect for the process.
Deborah Clarke, Marcus Meade’s mother, standing alongside her husband Anthony Meade, expressed her belief that her son’s race may have played a role in the deadly outcome. The family is seeking transparency and accountability, demanding answers to why armed police were dispatched when they were aware that Marcus posed no threat.
“We want to know everything. They’ve kept us in the dark, withholding information. It feels like everything is shrouded in secrecy,” Anthony Meade insisted. “Why did they take the life of our son? Why did they respond with lethal force against someone they knew was not a danger to anyone?”
Deborah Clarke lamented the loss of her son, whom she described as her constant companion and source of strength. She expressed her conviction that race may have influenced the events leading to Marcus’s tragic death.
Family spokesperson Bishop Dr. Desmond Jaddoo conveyed that the vigil aims to offer solace and support to the grieving family and the wider community. “It is a chance to demonstrate our care and concern for the family during this difficult time,” Bishop Jaddoo remarked.
The community’s solidarity with the Meade family underscores the significance of coming together to honor Marcus’s memory and seek answers regarding the circumstances surrounding his untimely death. As the investigation unfolds, the family and their supporters remain steadfast in their quest for justice and accountability.
For further updates on this developing story, stay tuned to BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds
