Monday, September 28, 2009

Derrion Albert Beat To Death Caught On Video You Can See The Footage Below

Three days after Albert's vicious beating outside Roseland Community Center, police are still talking to potential suspects. A cell phone video, now in possession of police, shows the violent, mob-like attack and may help identify his killers. His family is grateful for that, even if the tape is painful if not impossible for them to watch.

Chicago police say it is a very active investigation. Persons of interest were being interviewed.

Meanwhile, in the wake of Albert's death, Chicago police were encouraging Chicago public school students not to skip classes tomorrow because they're scared. Beginning Monday, police will be adding extra officers around some schools.

Derrion Albert's family talked with CBS 2's Dana Kozlov Sunday about the case and their grief over this senseless murder.

Some spent time in church. Others praying outside Fenger High School, where Albert attended class.

Jimmie Cutts, Albert's cousin, says his faith is the only thing getting him through this tough time.

Other family members say they are glad the videotape may help police find his killer. But Joe Walker, the man who helped raise Albert, says he can't watch the tape.

Albert's cousin Lareesia Williams say even the thought of seeing her cousin's last moments is too painful to bear.

"The people who was fightin' him, they still got another day," said Williams. "They can still grow old. He can't and now we gotta deal with that. He was the last person I'd ever thought we'd lose."

What sparked the midday melee and subsequent murder outside the Roseland Community Center remains a mystery.

Neighborhood activists say there is a lot of tension in the area. Some proof? Someone set fire to Albert's makeshift memorial overnight.

The teen's mother did not want to talk about her son's death. His grandfather says it's too overwhelming.

But those who spent time with Albert during his last week of life, who talked to him about his Tuesday night Bible class at his south side church, just want a quick and orderly end to the tragedy. They don't want any more violence.

A vigil for today was canceled due to the threat of retaliation. Albert's relatives say that is not the answer.

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