Family and friends of a man shot and killed by Decatur police continue to ask for answers from city leaders.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency says Stephen "Clay" Perkins died at the hospital early Friday morning following a dispute with a local tow truck driver.
Both ALEA and Decatur police say the tow truck driver was repossessing Perkins' vehicle when he threatened the driver and then an officer with a gun.
After the city council’s regular agenda was finished, several community members stood before the council and shared their concerns. Their concerns about the city's transparency with the community and Perkins' family.
Some asked about Decatur police protocol and others asked why the wife of Perkins was not contacted by police on Friday.
Terrance Baker, a longtime friend of Perkins, says speaking at the meeting Monday night was a step forward, but says he and the family still have many unanswered questions.
During the council meeting, Mayor Tab Bowling revealed he met with Perkins' wife and other family members yesterday.
Bowling told Â鶹Çø, “We’re just limited as far as answers, those will come from ALEA not from the city of Decatur. And in both atmospheres in visiting with the spouse and with the mother and family; they were the most hospitable, yet grieving.â€
In the meantime, Perkins' family and friends say they want his name to be known.
Baker said, “Steve Perkins. He was a Black man, he was a father, he was a husband, he was a cousin. And he was gunned down unlawfully by police in Decatur, Alabama and we want his name to be heard; we want his name to ring. We don't want this happening in Decatur again."
One Decatur police officer remains on administrative leave following the deadly shooting. ALEA continues to investigate.
