Make no mistake — this sympathetic portrayal is an effort to garner support and empathy for a White man who shot and killed an unarmed Black woman. On dash-cam video footage that partially captured the incident, Hall can be heard pleading, “Sir, I’m just here to pick up a package,” while physically backing away in an effort to subdue his fear. When it was clear that Brock refused to let her leave, she threatened to call 911, and he shot her, continuing to pursue her and shooting at her two more times before calling the police. After facing murder charges, Brock is pleading not guilty, claiming fear as his defense. While a jury will make the final decision regarding any legal consequences for Brock’s actions, the court of public opinion has already been tainted by efforts to prioritize his fear over Loletha Hall, the innocent Black woman slain.
Dr. Allison Wiltz
