Native American leaders in Arizona say they want the U.S. Attorney General’s office to investigate the March 27 th officer-involved shooting of a Navajo woman in Winslow.
According to authorities, the officer fired five shots at Loreal Tsingine, fatally wounding her, after she allegedly threatened the officer with scissors. Police were on scene responding to a shoplifting report.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety is currently overseeing a criminal investigation into the incident.
Arizona Representative Albert Hale said the state’s investigation isn’t independent enough. He joined leaders of the Navajo Nation and Hopi Tribe in the request for a federal probe.
"I think if we have that type of investigation there is more credibility given to it," said Hale.
Officials with DPS have not released the officer’s name.
A vigil for Tsinignie was held over the weekend by a group hoping to draw attention to the struggles Native Americans who live along reservation border towns face. Her funeral will be held Tuesday.
