An autopsy report released by the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's office has shed light on the tragic death of D'Vontaye Mitchell, a 43-year-old man who was pinned to the ground by security officers outside a Hyatt Regency hotel in Milwaukee. The report states that Mitchell died from 'restraint asphyxia and toxic effects of cocaine and methamphetamine,' with the manner of death classified as a homicide.
The incident, which occurred on June 30, involved Mitchell being restrained by four individuals after exhibiting combative behavior in the hotel lobby. He ultimately went unresponsive while awaiting police arrival. The medical examiner's investigation also revealed the presence of illicit drug paraphernalia on Mitchell's person.
Following Mitchell's death, the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office has not yet commented on potential charges in the case. However, civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing the Mitchell family, has called for immediate charges against the officers involved, citing the use of excessive force.
Cell phone video footage corroborates witness accounts of security guards pinning Mitchell to the ground, with allegations of physical strikes and pressure applied to his neck and back. Mitchell's family believes he was experiencing a mental health crisis at the time of the incident.
The hotel management company, Aimbridge Hospitality, took swift action by terminating several associates involved in the incident, stating that their conduct violated company policies and did not align with organizational values.
The tragic events surrounding Mitchell's death have reignited discussions about the use of force, particularly against individuals of color, in the wake of ongoing scrutiny following high-profile cases like the murder of George Floyd. As the investigation into Mitchell's death continues, calls for justice and accountability persist from his family and advocates.
