Jonathan Lewis Sr., the father of Jonathan Lewis Jr., who died after being beaten by a mob in Las Vegas, refuses to watch the viral video of his son’s senseless killing. The Metropolitan Police Department is investigating the incident, but has not confirmed the video’s authenticity. Lewis Sr. condemns the racist comments surrounding the incident on social media. The Clark County School District and the community are working together to address the issue of violence among students. A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Lewis Jr.’s family, raising over $65,000 so far. Brett Clarkson reported
Jonathan Lewis Sr. cannot bear to watch video of his son’s brutal death
Jonathan Lewis Sr., the grieving father of Jonathan Lewis Jr., who was fatally beaten by a mob near Rancho High School in Las Vegas, expressed his inability to watch the video capturing his son’s senseless killing. Lewis Jr. succumbed to his injuries on November 7 at University Medical Center, six days after the attack took place in broad daylight on November 1. Although the Metropolitan Police Department has not officially confirmed the authenticity of the viral video depicting the incident, Lewis Sr. asserts that the footage indeed shows his son.
As of now, both the police department and the Clark County coroner’s office have not released any updates regarding the teenager’s death. Officer Luis Vidal stated that the LVMPD is actively investigating the incident and will provide an update once available. The police had previously issued a press release stating that a juvenile had sustained life-threatening injuries after being assaulted by approximately 15 individuals.
The video, which has garnered widespread attention due to the involvement of Black youths, has unfortunately sparked racist commentary online. Lewis Sr., who resides in Austin, Texas, expressed his disappointment and condemned these racially motivated comments, stating that they dishonor his son’s memory.
Remarkably similar to another disturbing video capturing an act of violence, this footage brings to mind the alleged hit-and-run killing of retired Southern California police chief Andreas Probst on August 14. In that video, two teenagers laugh as one of them drives towards Probst, ultimately causing his death. Both of these teenagers, identified as Jesus Ayala, 18, and Jzamir Keys, have been charged with murder.
Lieutenant Bryan Zink of the Clark County School District Police Department described both videos as horrific and shocking. However, he could not confirm whether the viral video in question was directly linked to Lewis’ death, although the school police have been assisting the Metro police since the incident took place.
Jonathan Lewis Sr., who is determined to hold those responsible accountable and see them imprisoned, alleged that the teenagers involved in his son’s beating were also implicated in another incident. Due to concerns for someone else’s safety, he refrained from providing further details on this matter.
Community unity is crucial to address these incidents of violence
In response to questions about Lewis’ tragic death, the Clark County School District issued a statement expressing their grief and assuring the public that they will work closely with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the District Attorney’s office to hold the individuals involved accountable. The statement emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts through dialogue instead of resorting to violence, urging the community to come together and address the needs of their students.
In an effort to cover the expenses related to his son’s passing, Jonathan Lewis Sr. launched a verified GoFundMe campaign. The funds raised, which exceeded the initial goal of $25,000, will be divided between Lewis Sr.’s family and the family of Lewis Jr.’s mother. As of Monday, the campaign has already amassed over $65,000. Additionally, the GoFundMe page shared details provided by Lewis’ girlfriend, stating that Lewis Jr. was defending a smaller friend who had been victimized by a group of individuals. The altercation escalated when Lewis confronted the group and was subsequently attacked.
For further inquiries, please contact Brett Clarkson at bclarkson@reviewjournal.com.
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