Apr 2, 2016 - Navajo Woman Shot and Killed by Police in Arizona

On Easter Sunday, police in Winslow, Arizona shot and killed Loreal Juana Barnell-Tsingine (Navajo), 27, after an altercation in a local convenience store.

According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS), police were called to a Winslow Circle K on report of a shoplifting. Upon arrival, police engaged Loreal where an altercation ensued while trying to place her into custody.

A Winslow Police Department press release stated, “At this time [contact with Loreal], the subject displayed a weapon which presented a substantial threat to the officer. The officer discharged his weapon resulting in the unfortunate death.”

A police officer shot her five-times. Tsingine was declared dead at the scene.

It was later revealed that she was holding a pair of scissors.

In a statement on the families crowdfunding webpage

“Loreal was a mother, daughter, sister, cousin, neice and friend that was taken from us way to soon!! She was loved by so many. There are no words to describe the pain in our hearts, she was a special individual.”

A vigil for justice is planned for April 2nd at the Winslow Police department