Newly released autopsy findings shed light on the fatal encounter between Dexter Reed and Chicago police during a traffic stop in Humboldt Park last month. Reed, who was killed in a gun battle with officers, sustained at least 13 gunshot wounds, according to the autopsy report.

Multiple Gunshot Wounds: Unveiling the Grim Details

The autopsy report, released by the Cook County medical examiner’s office, revealed that Reed was struck by bullets at least 13 times during the altercation. Four officers fired nearly 100 rounds at Reed after he allegedly shot another officer in the wrist during the incident on March 21. Reed sustained gunshot wounds to various parts of his body, including his buttocks, chest, thighs, legs, back, shoulders, and knees.

The medical examiner’s office classified Reed’s death as a homicide, emphasizing the multiple gunshot wounds as the cause of death. Additionally, the toxicology report indicated the presence of Delta-9 THC, a psychoactive component found in marijuana, in Reed’s system at the time of his death.

Controversy and Legal Action

Reed’s death has sparked outrage and led to protests, with his family filing a federal lawsuit alleging excessive force and violations of Reed’s civil rights by the involved officers. The lawsuit, filed just a day before the autopsy report was released, highlights concerns over the use of lethal force and accountability in police encounters.

Earlier this month, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) released video footage of the shooting, providing further insight into the sequence of events leading to Reed’s death. According to COPA, Reed initiated the confrontation by firing at an officer who approached his vehicle during a traffic stop. The situation escalated rapidly, resulting in a barrage of gunfire from multiple officers within 41 seconds.

The release of the autopsy findings adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation into Reed’s death and raises questions about the tactics used by law enforcement during the encounter. As the investigation unfolds, the community awaits answers and seeks accountability for the tragic outcome of the confrontation between Reed and Chicago police.