The city of Durham is grappling with questions and concerns following an officer-involved shooting over the weekend that left a teenager hospitalized. Mayor Leonardo Williams is urging the public to remain calm and allow the investigative process to unfold as authorities work to piece together the details.
The incident occurred early Sunday when Durham police responded to a reported “car club” gathering at a Food Lion parking lot on Hope Valley Road. According to a statement from the Durham Police Department, when officers arrived to disperse the crowd, an officer’s vehicle was struck by a fleeing suspect. Cpl. R. McQueen, the officer involved, exited his vehicle and pursued the suspect, identified by family members as 16-year-old Joshua Garcia.
Police say Garcia pulled out a gun during the chase and refused to comply with repeated orders to drop the weapon. The confrontation escalated, and Garcia was shot by McQueen. The teenager fled and entered another vehicle with several passengers before being intercepted by a separate police team. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he remains in stable condition. No officers were injured during the incident.
In a press briefing, Mayor Williams acknowledged the complexity of the situation and urged the community not to rush to conclusions.
“We’re still learning the details,” Williams said. “It’s unfortunate that someone was shot, but we must ensure that we consider the full context before making any judgments.”
Williams emphasized the importance of due process and transparency, noting that both the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and the Durham Police Department’s Professional Standards Division are conducting a thorough review, as is standard procedure in officer-involved shootings.
The mayor also expressed concern about the public’s perception of the event. “The big mistake I want to avoid is reducing this to a single transaction. We have to look at the whole picture,” he said.
Community Response and Calls for Accountability
The incident has reignited debates about police practices, youth violence, and gun culture in Durham. Community leaders and residents are calling for accountability and transparency while emphasizing the need for stronger interventions to address underlying issues.
Dr. Wanda Boone, Founder of Together for Resilient Youth, urged the community to focus on systemic solutions. “This is another wake-up call to address gun violence at its root,” Boone said. “Our youth need resources, support, and alternatives to the paths that lead to these tragic outcomes.”
What Comes Next
As investigations continue, Mayor Williams and other city leaders are encouraging open dialogue between law enforcement and the community. Efforts to rebuild trust remain critical, with the mayor reiterating the need for patience and understanding.
For updates on the investigation and community forums discussing public safety, stay informed with The Bull City Citizen.
