Mourning the senseless death of Tyre Nichols

On behalf of York Regional Council, The Regional Municipality of York and our more than 1.2 million residents, I extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Tyre Nichols. His violent death, after being beaten by five Memphis, Tennessee police officers, has left many outraged and saddened, myself included. 

The chilling images of yet another Black man dying following a police interaction is a sad reminder more work is required to build trust and confidence between law enforcement and marginalized communities. York Region is not immune to the injustice, discrimination and racism seen in this video footage, despite having strong community partnerships.

Regional Council, York Regional Police and York Region staff are committed to fostering strong, caring and safe communities, which are inclusive, celebrate diversity and equality and allow for everyone to live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. There is absolutely no place for hate, violence or intolerance in our communities. 

We each have a responsibility to stand up against hate, prejudice and discrimination of any kind and to condemn violence at the hands of the very people we trust to protect our communities. 

As Chair of the York Regional Police Services Board, I commend the Memphis Police Department for taking swift action to dismiss the officers involved in this heinous and inhumane crime. I also extend my sympathies and support to the family and loved ones of Mr. Nichols, as they deserve both answers and timely justice. 

Wayne Emmerson
York Region Chairman and CEO

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Media Contact:

Corporate Communications, The Regional Municipality of York
Phone: 1-877-464-9675, ext. 71234 [email protected]