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Small but vocal protest held in downtown GR

Posted at 11:23 PM, Apr 23, 2022
and last updated 2022-04-24 03:27:18-04

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Protests continued in Grand Rapids Saturday with protesters voicing the need for justice for Patrick Lyoya, the 26-year-old who was shot and killed by a Grand Rapids police officer on April 4.

While the protest was much smaller than the one held a week ago, it was just as vocal as they marched through the streets.

Several people joined the crowd to demand justice for Patrick Lyoya.

“I don't know why this had to happen,” says Latisha Cheatham. “I wish it didn't happen and we had to go through this. I wish everyone could get along and love each other.”

Organizers say they met at Veterans Memorial Park because of the Michigan GOP convention that was going on at DeVos Place.

Protesters were told to be disruptive but not to engage. They stopped in the middle of the streets several times throughout the evening. They told onlookers they want the Grand Rapids police officer to be held accountable.

Michigan State Police are still investigating the case and will hand over its report to the Kent County prosecutor to determine if there will be any charges. It’s unclear when that will happen.

Many who participated in the protest had taken part multiple times over the past few weeks.

“I keep coming out just so we can make a change,” says Brian Stewart II. “I'm just tired of the same old thing happening over and over again.”

The protest remained peaceful Saturday.

Watch Saturday's protest here:

READ MORE: 'Enough is enough:' Friends, family gather for Patrick Lyoya's funeral

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