BREAKING NEWS: John Scott Jr. Dies After Violent Police Encounter in Decatur, Alabama
Decatur, AL — Tragedy has struck the city of Decatur following the death of John Scott Jr., a 41-year-old Black man, who passed away after a distressing encounter with local police during what his family described as a mental health crisis.
On April 15, Scott’s mother called authorities, concerned for her son’s well-being. A mental health officer initially assessed the situation and deemed there was no immediate threat. However, after a second 911 call, Decatur police returned to the scene, discovering that Scott had an outstanding warrant related to a 2021 speeding violation.
When Scott declined to enter an ambulance voluntarily, officers attempted to arrest him. Body camera footage shows officers using force—punching and deploying a Taser during the arrest. Scott appeared disoriented and repeatedly complained that he couldn’t breathe while restrained. An hour after arriving at the Morgan County Jail, Scott began to suffer medical complications. He was hospitalized and remained in critical condition for a week before dying on April 23.
Interim Police Chief Nadis Carlisle has called for both state and federal investigations, while local activists and community leaders are demanding transparency and justice. The incident has intensified scrutiny of police conduct in Decatur, which is still dealing with the fallout from the fatal 2023 police shooting of Steve Perkins.
The city remains tense as residents seek answers and accountability in another case that raises serious concerns about how law enforcement responds to mental health emergencies.
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