STOCKTON, Calif. — The family of Colby Friday, a man shot and killed by Stockton police in 2016, has unveiled a new park bench in his memory at Weberstown Park.
The dedication ceremony, held Saturday morning, featured emotional remarks from Friday's mother, Denise, who expressed her hope that the bench would serve as a peaceful spot for reflection.
The bench, inscribed with the words “We miss you dearly,” symbolizes a space for contemplation and remembrance.
Colby Friday's death, which occurred in late August 2016, ignited protests in Stockton.
At the time, police claimed that an officer confronted Friday based on his resemblance to a robbery suspect. According to their account, the shooting occurred during a struggle between Friday and the officer.
In 2018, the San Joaquin District Attorney’s Office ruled that the officer’s use of deadly force was justified.
However, in 2021, the family settled a wrongful death lawsuit against the city for $3.25 million. In a statement following the settlement, the family expressed their grief, stating that the incident would “forever haunt Colby’s children.”
The newly dedicated bench marks a poignant step in the family’s journey toward healing, as Denise Friday reflected on their enduring sadness.
“We miss him dearly,” she said, surrounded by family and supporters during the dedication.
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