US: Curfew declared after protesters gather in Kenosha (Wisconsin) August 23

Event

Protesters gathered in Wisconsin's Kenosha on Sunday, August 23, following a police shooting that occurred on Sunday that has been met with opposition and controversy. Protesters reportedly set vehicles on fire in Kenosha, and marched towards the police headquarters. Authorities in Kenosha declared a county-wide curfew which is in place through 07:00 (local time) on Monday, August 24. Earlier in the evening on Sunday, police had reportedly urged 24-hour businesses to close amid reports of numerous armed robberies and shots being fired.

Further protests are likely in the coming days, along with a heightened security presence.

Context

Jacob Blake, an African American, was reportedly shot several times by police officers while they were responding to an alleged domestic incident in Kenosha. A video posted online reportedly shows Jacob being shot in the back as he tried to get into his car. Jacob is believed to be in a serious condition; however, police have not provided any details regarding the shooting. The shooting comes amid heightened tensions in the US over police brutality following the killing of African American man George Floyd in May this year.

Advice

Those in Wisconsin are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution, monitor the situation, allow additional travel time in city centres, and heed all instructions issued by local authorities.