Indiana governor urgers Hoosiers to be part of the solution in wake of violent protests

INDIANAPOLIS (FOX19/AP) - Gov. Eric Holcomb released a statement Saturday regarding the violent protests that occurred in Indiana Friday.

The statement reads:

“Hoosiers have long been people who find solutions to the challenges we face, whether it be in response to a pandemic or to an injustice like the world witnessed so tragically inflicted upon Mr. George Floyd in Minnesota.

“As I stated yesterday, injuring the innocent in response to an injustice is counterproductive. I’ve asked the Indiana State Police to fully support and make resources available to local communities across our state to ensure our citizens and their property remain safe.

“In the days ahead, peaceful assembly and clear voices will be important if we are to make progress. Violence and vandalism will set us back in our shared desire to resolve differences. Let us again, each of us, be part of the solution.”

Crowds angered by the death of George Floyd, a handcuffed black man who died in Minneapolis police custody, clashed with police in downtown Indianapolis overnight, prompting officers to fire multiple volleys of tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds that shattered storefronts.

A protest that began peacefully Friday in the city’s downtown area turned violent during the night when crowds shattered windows and glass doors on many businesses, including Circle Centre Mall.

Chief Randal Taylor of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department said Saturday that at least 30 businesses were damaged and 27 people were arrested during demonstrations that continued through at least 4 a.m.

Copyright 2020 WXIX. All rights reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.