Family of 24-Year-Old Killed by Tuscaloosa Police Share Funeral Arrangements, Call for Support

The family of the 24-year-old man who was fatally shot by police in Tuscaloosa last month have announced plans for his funeral and continue to call for transparency in the wake of his death.

The deceased, Tristan Clark, was a passenger in the back seat of a vehicle pulled over by narcotics officers on December 20th. Police say the 24-year-old had active warrants out for his arrest and was visibly armed with a handgun at the time of the stop - they claim he drew the pistol despite being instructed not to and was shot by one of the narcotics officers. 

Get our free mobile app

In a press conference days after the deadly shooting, Clark's family called for more transparency from the Tuscaloosa Police Department and the multi-agency Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit, who have been tasked with investigating the shooting.

The VCU includes TPD officers, but their policy after officer-involved shootings is for the case to be investigated by personnel who are not affiliated with the department involved in the shooting, which may include sheriff's deputies, Northport Police or University of Alabama Police officers.

On Thursday, the family and attorneys of Tristan Clark said he will be buried this Saturday, January 6th, at Greater Faith Church on Highway 69 in Moundville. The service is set for 1 p.m.

"The family appreciates the overwhelming community support received during this tragic ending of Tristan Clark’s life," the family said in a press release. "In particular, the family thanks the local Tuscaloosa Chapter of the NAACP, Greater Faith Church and Rainey Mortuary for their assistance and support along with those nationwide who have contributed to the GoFundme account or expressed support for the family. The family continues to seek public support in their campaign to raise funds for his funeral service. A GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to alleviate the financial strain and ensure a dignified farewell for Tristian. To contribute and offer support, please visit the GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/5d8cd435"

In the same statement, the family and attorneys reiterated that they dispute the police narrative of the shooting and called on the Department of Justice to open an investigation into the case.