The family of Nathaniel “Nate” Fejerang is asking for justice after bodycam footage showed a police officer shooting him in the back of the head. The 19-year-old was killed during an arrest attempt in West Humboldt Park, Chicago, on May 29. His family is demanding that the officer responsible face charges.
This week, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability released the bodycam video. It shows the moments before and during the fatal shooting. However, the footage does not clearly show who fired the first gunshot, which injured an officer and led to the shooting.
Police claim Fejerang had a gun during the arrest. They say a weapon went off and hit one officer. That is when another officer, identified in reports as Oscar Asilis, shot Fejerang while he was already on the ground. The shot struck the teen in the back of the head and neck.
Despite these claims, the exact reason police stopped Fejerang remains unclear. The independent investigation by the Civilian Office of Police Accountability is ongoing. So far, they have not confirmed who fired the first shot or why Fejerang was being pursued.
The video shows several officers on top of Fejerang. A loud shot is heard, but it’s not clear who pulled the trigger. Seconds later, the officer fires at close range, striking the teen fatally.
In response to the video, Fejerang’s family and supporters held a peaceful protest. The event took place on Thursday and included a march. Protesters walked from West Grand and North Long Avenues to the 25th District police station at 5555 West Grand Avenue.
Family and friends described Fejerang as kind and loving. They called him their “teddy bear” and said he did not deserve to die this way. The protest was emotional, with many holding signs and calling for answers. Some asked why the police used deadly force when Fejerang was already on the ground.
The event was organized with support from local groups including Dare To Struggle and the Borikén Liberation Front. Other community partners also joined. They demanded more transparency and accountability from the police department.
Advocates are calling for officer Oscar Asilis to be charged. They say the footage raises serious concerns about how the situation was handled. Activists also point to a pattern of police violence, especially involving young men of color.
Fejerang’s death adds to a growing list of police-involved shootings that have sparked protests in cities across the country. Many families say they feel unsafe and unheard. They are demanding change in how police respond during arrests.
So far, no charges have been filed in this case. The Civilian Office of Police Accountability has said the investigation is still open. They are reviewing the video and collecting evidence to determine exactly what happened.
Fejerang’s family said they will continue to protest until they see justice. They want the officer who pulled the trigger to be held responsible. They also want answers about why their loved one was stopped and why the situation ended in tragedy.
As the investigation continues, the family hopes public pressure will lead to action. They believe the video shows excessive force and say their son should still be alive today.
