Family of man shot and killed by Omaha police officer speaks out while grand jury continues
Right now, a grand jury is hearing arguments on whether an Omaha police officer should be charged in the shooting death of an Omaha man. Nearly a year ago, Steven Phipps was shot and killed by Omaha police officer Noah Zendajas. Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine cleared him of any wrongdoing and declined to press charges. READ MORE: Omaha police identify officers involved, share body camera audio, screenshots from deadly shootingSept. 28 will mark one year since Phipps' death. His aunt, Angela Phipps, said losing him has been hard, and her family is hoping for any type of justice they can get for Phipps. According to Omaha police, two officers conducted a traffic stop at 31st and Taylor for expired plates. According to police, Phipps ignored verbal commands and ran toward Metro Transit's North Omaha Transit Center. Days after the incident OPD released screenshots and audio from the scene. Omaha police said he jumped over a fence, and at that time, Zendejas said he saw Phipps remove a handgun from the front of his body. And while Phipps was jumping over the fence, the gun ended up being pointed at officers, and Zendejas opened fire. Phipps was shot 8 times. He was legally allowed to carry his firearms.Phipps' aunt said she wants her nephew to be remembered for the life that he lived."Honor student, just a ... Life of the party," Angela said.Monday was the first day for the grand jury. It's unclear if a verdict has been reached.NAVIGATE: Home | Weather | Local News | National | Sports | Newscasts on demand |
