Family of man killed by police set probe

The family of a man fatally shot by police in Bridgeton, N.J., has hired a lawyer to conduct an investigation into his death.

"With all of the stuff going on with police departments across the country, they're just concerned," said Conrad J. Benedetto, commissioned by the widow of Jerame C. Reid to oversee the review. "They want to make sure all the evidence is preserved."

An independent autopsy was scheduled for Friday, according to Benedetto. He said it was to be performed by "a well-known New Jersey pathologist" but would not give a name.

Investigators from Benedetto's firm are also sifting through eyewitness reports and video footage, he said.

Cumberland County First Assistant Prosecutor Harold Shapiro, whose office is handling the official investigation into the shooting, declined to comment on the family's announcement Friday.

Reid was in a vehicle being driven by Leroy Tutt around 9:20 p.m. Tuesday when police pulled the car over near Henry Street and South Avenue, Benedetto said.

During the traffic stop, Police Officers Braheme Days and Roger Worley both shot Reid, according to a statement from the county Prosecutor's Office.

The statement did not specify what sparked the shooting but said a handgun "was revealed and later recovered" at the scene.

Both officers were placed on administrative leave, pending the outcome of the Prosecutor's Office investigation.

Shapiro declined Friday to provide additional details about the shooting.

Several witnesses told reporters that Reid's hands were visible during the stop and that he did not appear to be armed when he was shot.

Reid's family members have received conflicting accounts of what occurred from witnesses and authorities, as well as from law firm investigators, Benedetto said.

"There are several versions that are being told to them, and they just need to know which one of them is correct," he said.

A medical examiner performed an autopsy Wednesday, but the results were not available Friday evening.

Reid had several previous criminal convictions, including a charge of attempted murder that netted him a 15-year prison sentence in 1995, court records state.

In interviews, his widow, Lawanda, has acknowledged her husband's past but contended he was trying to move forward with his life. She was unavailable to speak Friday.

Benedetto declined to comment on Reid's criminal history.

"At this point, we're not able to discuss any past matters until we can get the present matter corrected," he said. "I'm sure his record will speak for itself."

He said he was unsure when the independent investigation would be concluded, saying it could range from weeks to months.

Reid's funeral services have been scheduled for Jan. 10 at Chestnut Assembly of God in Vineland, N.J.

His family members are trying to heal and have requested privacy as they grieve, Benedetto said.

"They're just hoping for answers, and whatever the answer is, the answer is," he said. "Nothing can be created. They just want to know exactly what transpired."