Though the Jan. 6 committee recently wrapped up its “investigation” into the so-called “insurrection” that took place at the U.S. Capitol a year and a half ago, I can’t help but wonder how some things are still left uninvestigated. For instance, the death of veteran Ashli Babbitt.
For those unfamiliar, let me paint a scenario based on video taken at the scene.
Babbitt attended the rally alongside others. In the midst of it, Babbitt — who, if I need to remind you, was unarmed at the time — stuck her head up to a broken window. Just as she stuck her head through, plainclothes Capitol Police officer Lt. Michael Byrd fired a shot, sending her falling back into the crowd. Babbitt would die from her wounds as blood poured out of her mouth.
I am left wondering why justice has not been granted to Ashli Babbitt. I know her husband, Aaron, and her brother, Roger Witthoeft, certainly want answers, as do others. But the Jan. 6 committee hasn’t provided these answers, being hellbent on finding other facts.
A full-scale investigation should have occurred since the standard protocol wasn’t followed for a plainclothes officer opening fire on an unarmed civilian. Even in the face of what some call a riot, there’s no excuse for making a split-second decision like that, especially one resulting in the death of someone like Babbitt.
Some may believe that Babbitt’s demise was simply the result of a “hate mob” storming the Capitol. But let’s take a closer look at the facts and why an investigation is warranted, shall we?
There are standardized procedures in place to investigate tragic incidents involving a law enforcement officer having to shoot a suspect perceived as a threat. It is standard protocol when an officer discharges his weapon for that officer to be placed on administrative leave. An independent outside authority investigates the incident to determine the factual basis of the shooting and the circumstances surrounding it.