Protest Activity Follows Longview Police Shooting

LONGVIEW — Protesters wearing masks began showing up in small groups Saturday at Longview police headquarters to bring focus to the shooting death of 17-year-old Kristiana Coignard last month. KETK reports that by 12:45 p.m. there were about 50 people outside the police station taking part in the social media-driven effort. Those wearing masks chanted, “Don’t shoot kids; arrest, don’t shoot.” By 4 p.m. or so, about a dozen protesters remained. A candlelight vigil was scheduled for Saturday evening, and the demonstration was due to continue Sunday. Police said Coignard was shot multiple times when she allegedly rushed an officer with a knife in her hand in the Longview Police Department lobby on January 22.

Some people who support the police department let their voices be heard in a different way. By late Friday afternoon, the police station was decorated with American flags, signs, and banners. Members of a group started by an officer’s wife said they wanted to show their love and support for local law enforcement. Meanwhile, a law firm has announced that Coignard’s family has retained its services. Tim Maloney will represent Coignard’s parents. A press conference will be held Monday at 10:30 a.m. in San Antonio.