US President Donald Trump has paid tribute to a Retired 77-year-old police captain who was shot dead by rioters in St. Louis while helping a friend defend his business from looters.
The murder of African American police veteran David Dorn was live streamed on Facebook at around 2:30AM local time during a night of violence which saw four other officers shot while several others were injured by rocks and petrol bombs while numerous businesses were looted and destroyed in the Missouri city.
Riots, looting, arson and deadly violence hit numerous American cities for an eighth consecutive night following the death of African American George Floyd in police custody.
Captain Dorn was found dead on the sidewalk in front of Lee’s Pawn & Jewellery store after being shot during a robbery. He had come to the store to help the owner, a friend of his, protect his business from the rioters.
He had served 38-years with the St. Louis Police Department, rising to the rank of captain.
In the footage of the murder, looters did not attempt to aid Dorn who was shot in the stomach and could be heard pleading for help as rioters ignored his pleas and continued to rob the store.
President Trump tweeted his own tribute Tuesday evening, writing: “
Our highest respect to the family of David Dorn, a Great Police Captain from St. Louis, who was viciously shot and killed by despicable looters last night. We honor our police officers, perhaps more than ever before. Thank you!”
President Trump has warned that should mayors and governors not take control of the situation and end the violence he will use the military to do so.
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