Demonstrators take to the streets to end the violence

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Recent gun violence across the nation moved people to demonstrate in the Port City. The demonstration began at Kenan Memorial Fountain and ended at the 1898 Memorial. Dozens of people showed up to march.  Many had signs and chanted as they walked.

Robin Robinson was among the demonstrators. She said her 20 year-old son Tevin Robinson was shot and killed by Wilmington Police in 2013.

Police said he and two other men robbed a Pizza Hut. Police said when the men were confronted by police they didn’t listen and ran toward them. Police said they then opened fire.

Robinson said her son deserved his day in court and that’s why she marched.

“It’s about justice and empathy. Just put yourself in my shoes. I had a 20 year-old son that had hopes and dreams but eight shots in the Pizza Hut parking lot ended his life,” said Robinson. “Could they have resolved it and given him a day in court because in America you’re innocent until proven guilty.”

And she was joined by several people who said they were looking for the same thing; justice for all.

“We have different organizations coming together to make a difference, to make a change,” said demonstrator Bernardine Fulton. “Less violence, less confusion and people are more unified.”

The officers involved in that Pizza Hut robbery shooting were cleared. The district attorney said the use of force in that case was legally justified.