The official autopsy report for Tyre Nichols, who died days after a January traffic stop by police in Memphis, Tennessee, indicates that he likely died from blunt force trauma sustained during a violent confrontation with officers.
The Memphis Police Department said Nichols was pulled over for “reckless driving,” and a confrontation with officers ensued, resulting in Nichols fleeing. Nichols was ultimately apprehended by officers after another confrontation, during which he complained of having difficulty breathing. He was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and died three days later.
A medical examiner’s report reviewed by Nichols’ family through their attorneys, Benjamin Crump and Antonio Romanucci, states that the manner of death was a homicide and Nichols died from blunt force trauma.
This report is consistent with an earlier independent review. The family’s attorneys have expressed their commitment to seeking justice for what they consider a senseless tragedy. Five Memphis police officers were fired and are facing charges, including second-degree murder and aggravated assault, after body camera footage showed them punching, kicking, and striking Nichols with a baton during the incident.
