In a tragic incident that has sparked outrage, a 37-year-old Black man, Kilyn Lewis, was shot and killed by an Aurora police officer. The body-worn camera footage reveals a disturbing scene: Lewis, unarmed and holding a phone, raised his hands in surrender when SWAT Officer Michael Dieck fired the fatal shot. The incident occurred outside an apartment complex on May 23, 2024, and Lewis succumbed to his injuries two days later.
Tensions Escalate: The Shooting and Its Aftermath
Lewis was a suspect in a May 5 attempted first-degree murder case in Denver. Both Denver and Aurora officers were tracking him, surveilling his movements for two days. On that fateful day, the SWAT team confronted Lewis as he parked a red Chevrolet Monte Carlo near Expo Park. Standing next to the open trunk of the car, Lewis faced officers who surrounded him. Despite having empty hands, he took a few steps toward the driver’s side while officers shouted commands. In a matter of seconds, Officer Dieck fired, and Lewis fell to the ground, screaming in pain and disbelief.
Community Outcry and Calls for Accountability
The shooting has ignited protests and demands for transparency. Lewis’ family, along with community leaders, held a press conference, urging justice and accountability. They called for Officer Dieck’s dismissal, a ban on his policing career in Colorado, and a thorough investigation into the incident. The community rallies around the memory of Kilyn Lewis, seeking answers and systemic change.
