Activists Hold Vigil For Romir Talley, Killed By Wilkinsburg Police Officer

WILKINSBURG (KDKA) -- Activists gathered at a vigil for Romir Talley on Sunday at 1:30 p.m. right at the intersection where he was killed by a Wilkinsburg police officer last week.

A Wilkinsburg police officer shot Talley after Talley reportedly fired a shot at the officer on Dec. 22. The officer is currently on administrative leave, and Talley's family is demanding answers.

The vigil took place on Center and Stoner Way in Wilkinsburg between Penn Ave and Ross Ave. Those participating were asked to bring pictures, teddy bears, candles and balloons in honor of Talley's memory. Clergy were also invited.

Talley's family apparently also still needed money to afford funeral expenses, and a Facebook post requested that people send money to the family for those expenses.

Speakers gave testimonials and sung for Talley in the rain. One speaker even said that Wilkinsburg Mayor Marita Garrett should have been at the vigil.

Indivisible Pittsburgh and Women's March Pittsburgh leader Tracy Baton was also present and spoke at the vigil.

"The family's pain and grief and loss is something that is part of a traumatized community," Baton said.

Wilkinsburg Borough responded, offering their thoughts and prayers to the Talley family.

"Our sincere sympathy goes out to the entire family during this difficult time," they said in a statement. "In addition to Mr. Talley's family, we also recognize that this has impacted the broader community and many persons in our community are mourning the loss of Mr. Talley's life."

They also vowed to be as cooperative as possible with the county's investigation.

"The investigation will be independent and the borough will be transparent with respect to the factual findings as soon as it is available."