SENECA, S.C. – The family of a South Carolina teenager shot and killed by police during an attempted drug bust wants federal authorities to be part of the investigation into the shooting.
Attorney Eric Bland said in a statement released Tuesday to news outlets that police violated 19-year-old Zachary Hammond's rights.
Seneca police Lt. Mark Tiller says he shot Hammond during the bust the night of July 26 because he felt threatened as the teen drove his car at him.
Hammond's family says autopsy results show Hammond was shot through the driver's side window from behind, indicating there was no danger to the officer.
Both the officer and the teen are white.
The State Law Enforcement Division has released little about its investigation and will send findings to the local prosecutor.