Lindani Myeni’s family to file wrongful death suit

The family of Lindani Myeni, the South African former rugby player who was shot dead by police in Hawaii, the United States, is preparing to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Police who were responding to a burglary on Wednesday, 14 April 2021, claim Myeni behaved violently towards a woman who had called them to get him off her property.

His wife, Lindsay Myeni spoke to eNCA and said she wants justice for his death.

“I think he might have been trying to drive to the temple because he was looking for a place to pray or figure out and clear his mind about what was stressing him in life. Good stress…happy stress, he was about to get his green card,” Myeni said.

“I would like to see them (the police officers) spend time in jail, just because I feel like that would humble them and allow them to see people in jail as humans. I would like to see them do some time, at least. I would love to see real reform in the way that people are treated by police across America”

Lindani Myeni’s wife wants police to account for his death

Hawaii police have already released body camera footage which, for the most part, shows what happened. However Lindani Myeni’s wife Lindsay insists they must still release footage of the entire encounter to get the full picture.

She revealed that she had received no help from both the US and South African government, despite the latter having promised to be at their beck and call.

“They have a lot of other cameras and footage that they have chosen not to show. That’s what we’re pressing for right now. That’s our number one goal,” Myeni said.

US police have often been accused of being heavy-handed towards black men and many, including Myeni’s wife, believe he was another casualty.

Hawaii police have however denied this and insisted the encounter with Myeni was not racially motivated.

“Officers administered first aid to the suspect and the man was transported to the hospital in critical condition. He died of his injuries at the hospital. The three responding officers were also taken to the hospital for multiple injuries,” Honolulu’s Police Chief Susan Ballard said.