Da’Quain Johnson was 32 years old when he was shot by a Grand Rapids police officer and died from his injuries the next day. Video released by police shows him on the ground after a K-9 was deployed before three shots were fired. His family and community members are grieving, searching for answers, and demanding accountability.

Multiple investigations have been announced. But when a life is taken by law enforcement — especially in a case that has raised serious public concerns and questions about racial bias — the review must be unquestionably independent. Trust cannot exist if the process itself is in doubt.

Amnesty International USA has called for a truly independent investigation. We are urging Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel to appoint a special prosecutor from outside Kent County to oversee this case. We are also calling on the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division to open a federal civil rights investigation to determine whether Da’Quain Johnson’s constitutional rights were violated.

Black communities across this country have long suffered unequal treatment in policing. Generations of over-policing, disproportionate use of force, and unequal accountability have created deep mistrust that cannot be ignored. When a Black man dies during a police encounter under disputed circumstances, the need for independence and transparency becomes even more urgent.

An independent review protects everyone. It protects the integrity of law enforcement officers who acted lawfully. It protects the rights of the family seeking truth. And it protects the public’s faith in the justice system.

We further urge the Grand Rapids City Commission and Mayor David LaGrand to strengthen use-of-force policies and civilian oversight to help prevent future tragedies.

Justice requires independence. Transparency requires action. Sign this petition to demand a truly impartial investigation and meaningful reform in the name of Da’Quain Johnson.