SC lawmakers condemn Walter Scott shooting

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) on Wednesday called video showing the shooting of Walter Scott in North Charleston, S.C., “deeply troubling.” 

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Walter Scott,” Graham, who’s mulling a run for president in 2016,  said in a statement. “The horrific video is very difficult to watch and deeply troubling on many fronts.” 

“I also know the actions of the officer in this situation do not accurately reflect on the many valuable contributions made by thousands of law enforcement officers in South Carolina and across our nation,” he added. 

South Carolina’s junior senator, Tim Scott (R), late Tuesday said the “senseless” shooting was  “absolutely unnecessary and avoidable.”

On Wednesday, the South Carolina Republican called on protesters to remain peaceful. 

The horrific video that came to light yesterday is deeply troubling. #WalterScott (1/6)

— Tim Scott (@SenatorTimScott) April 8, 2015

It is clear the killing of #WalterScott was unnecessary&avoidable; my prayers are with the Scott family as they go through this ordeal (2/6)

— Tim Scott (@SenatorTimScott) April 8, 2015

The swift action taken by SLED&relevant authorities upon receiving the video shows the severity of this terrible event. #WalterScott (3/6)

— Tim Scott (@SenatorTimScott) April 8, 2015

With several protests planned today, I join community leaders in North Charleston in calling for peace. #WalterScott (4/6)

— Tim Scott (@SenatorTimScott) April 8, 2015

I understand the hurt, the frustration and the anger many are feeling today. But violence solves nothing. #WalterScott (5/6)

— Tim Scott (@SenatorTimScott) April 8, 2015

We must come together as a community, state, and nation in working to bring our communities together and rebuild trust. #WalterScott (6/6)

— Tim Scott (@SenatorTimScott) April 8, 2015

The lawmakers’ comments follow the release of a video that purportedly shows the shooting of Scott by police officer Michael Slager. In the video, Scott is seen running away as Slager draws his weapon and is heard firing eight times.

Slager, who was charged with murder after the video emerged, told authorities that he feared for his life because Scott had taken his Taser.