Madison Mayor Paul Soglin said on Monday morning he trusts that the people of his city will respond appropriately to the Friday police shooting of an unarmed black teenager.
At a somber press conference, Soglin said it would take years of soul searching to find the right response to the shooting of 19-year-old Tony Robinson.
“We are in the midst of one of the most tragic episodes in the history of this city and community,” said Soglin.
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Robinson was fatally shot Friday night by a police officer who forced his way into an apartment after hearing a disturbance while responding to a call. Police say Robinson had attacked the officer.
Soglin did not address the specifics of the Robinson shooting, saying an investigation was ongoing.
When asked, Soglin said he had no advice for people who are so frustrated with the Robinson incident that they’d contemplate taking matters into their own hands, or being disruptive.
“I’m not sure I have to say anything. This is Madison, Wisconsin, and I’ve got tremendous faith in the people of this community in leading themselves,” said Soglin.
Soglin said he met personally with Robinson’s mother the night of the shooting.
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