Statement from Fr. Shanley on the death of Tyre Nichols

I watched in shock, outrage, and sadness the videos of the senseless, horrific, and traumatic death of 29-year-old Tyre Nichols at the hands of now-terminated members of the Memphis Police Department. Life is our most precious gift, and we have now seen another instance of how a Black life has been unjustly disrespected and devalued. We must all work to change this.

As a Catholic, Vincentian University, we stand in solidarity against all forms of hate, violence, and police misconduct. The St. John’s University community grieves over this senseless death. I ask you to join me in prayer for the unimaginable pain and suffering inflicted upon the Nichols family, Tyre’s friends, and the broader community. In the face of human wickedness, we turn to God for healing, comfort, and the strength to persevere in the struggle against evil.

We are exploring ways for us to respond to this trauma as a community. In the meantime, I ask that we continue to practice care and compassion for one another. Let us find ways to show up and support one another, trusting that God is always by our side.