Newly released video has prompted an official review into an incident involving a police response in Akron, Ohio. Authorities say the footage shows a rapidly unfolding situation that occurred shortly after 9 p.m. on Nov. 11, following reports of a disturbance in a parking lot outside a local bar.
Initial calls to authorities suggested the individual involved may have been armed. However, Akron Mayor Shammas Malik stated Wednesday that current information indicates the man did not have a weapon on him at the time of the encounter. Officials emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and will work to clarify all details.
Body-worn camera footage released by local officials shows an officer giving several verbal commands to the individual shortly after arriving on the scene. Moments later, the situation escalated quickly, leading to the man sustaining serious injuries before being taken into custody. He was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and remains under medical care, according to local media reports.
WKYC of Cleveland, citing a family member, identified the man as 36-year-old Corey Phillips and reported that he is in critical condition in the hospital. Additional reports indicate that he has undergone multiple medical procedures since the incident, based on information from people familiar with his care.
Earlier that evening, a 911 caller reported that a person outside the bar was behaving erratically and may have been armed, prompting staff and patrons to temporarily secure themselves inside the building. Officials said these reports are part of the broader investigation into what led up to the police response.
Mayor Malik acknowledged community concerns in a statement, noting that full clarity will come once the investigation is complete. “I understand how unsettling and confusing this situation may be for many in our community,” he said. “We are committed to transparency as we work to determine all of the facts.”
The review remains active, and authorities are expected to provide updates as more verified information becomes available.
