Minneapolis, MN – While participating in a peaceful vigil and protest of the killing of Winston Boogie Smith by police, on Sunday evening in the Uptown area of Minneapolis, Deona Knajdek (also known as Deona Erickson) was killed by the driver of a speeding car that crashed into those gathered.
Following is a statement by State Representatives Jamie Long (DFL-Minneapolis) and Frank Hornstein (DFL-Minneapolis) and Senator Scott Dibble (DFL-Minneapolis):
“We stand in support and solidarity with those who have been gathering regularly to call attention to the death of Winston Boogie Smith, and add our voices to the demand for a thorough, timely and transparent investigation so that justice and accountability can be had. The enduring and ongoing tragedy of police mistreatment and murder of BIPOC people, especially Black men, makes this mandatory.
“Deona Knajdek, only 31 years old, mother of two, daughter and sister to a family who loved her, by the account of friends and family was deeply committed to showing up and making a difference for Black lives and the greater cause of justice. We join the community in mourning her death and extend our sorrow and condolences to all who loved her. We call for a timely and thorough investigation, and call for the full measure of justice for the perpetrator.
“We recommit ourselves to doing everything we can to change state policies to earn trust and legitimacy in our public safety systems, and to bring an end to the time when anyone is forced to live in fear of those whose job is to uphold the law and help make our communities more safe.”