It has been three years to the day since Zachary Bearheels died while in Omaha Police custody and the community is making sure his memory isn't forgotten.
Friday afternoon dozens of protesters gathered at the corner of 16th and Jackson, the site where Bearheels got off a bus and started a journey through Omaha the would end with his death. One person who spoke downtown said the gathering on Friday was the largest group to ever attend a Bearheels memorial.
The anniversary of Bearheels' death comes amid days of civil unrest following the in-custody death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. People who gathered on Friday say they’re still seeking justice in Bear Heels' death. Along with honoring Zachary’s memory and recounting the day he died, their resounding message is unity and change.
They prayed for change, specifically for change in the Omaha Police Department, demanding more accountability. “On those cars, it says protect and serve. On that day Zachary Bearheels needed the most protection. He needed to be served. When it happens to us again and it will, I’m not surprised.”
After mourners spoke downtown, the group started their 4 mile trek to the corner of 60th and Center. The Bucky's gas station there was where Bearheels would have his fateful run-in with Omaha Police.
The four officers involved in Bearheels death were fired, but recently three of them were reinstated after an arbitration hearing.