A former Florida police officer has been charged with manslaughter and attempted murder after fatally shooting a legally armed black man who was waiting for help when his car broke down.
Prosecutors charged former officer Nouman Raja on Wednesday after a grand jury found that the shooting was unjustified, Reuters reports.
Raja, 38, was terminated from the Palm Beach Gardens Police after killing the 31-year-old Jones on October 18. Raja then approached Jones in plainclothes while driving an unmarked van. Both men apparently pulled guns on each other, but Raja was the only person to fire his weapon, shooting six shots, striking Jones three times.
Jones’ family said they were relieved that Raja would face charges.
"While we understand that nothing can bring back our son, brother and friend, this arrest sends a message that this conduct will not be tolerated from members of law enforcement," the family's statement read.
