Death of Black Man Following Confrontation with Milwaukee Hotel Guards Under Investigation
Hotel Security Accused of Excessive Force
Video footage has recently emerged that depicts a distressing incident outside the Hyatt Regency hotel in Milwaukee, adding to a series of recent events involving misappropricated force. Dvontaye Mitchell, a 43-year-old Black man, died in late June after being pinned to the ground by the hotel’s security guards. The incident, which shows Mitchell crying out for help, displays striking similarities to the 2020 killing of George Floyd and is now under investigation by Milwaukee police.
Mitchell’s Cry for Help Ignored
In the footage taken by a witness, Mitchell can be seen lying on the ground with guards applying their hands and knees to pin him down. His mournful plea for help and repeated cries of apologies are clearly audible. Family representatives report that Mitchell was dealing with mental health problems, substantiated by claims of a witness who alleges one of the guards was striking Mitchell on the head with an object. The police, however, did not respond to these statements.
Hyatt Regency Responds
The security personnel implicated in the incident are employed by Aimbridge Hospitality, a Texas-based company that manages the operation of Hyatt Regency hotels. As investigations continue into the circumstances of Mitchell’s death, the involved employees have been suspended. The Hyatt spokesperson expressed condolences to Mitchell’s family and confirmed their commitment to providing a welcoming and safe environment for all guests.
A Call for Accountability and Justice
As the event gains national attention, civil rights lawyer Ben Crump, representing Mitchell’s family, insists on holding the security guards accountable. More witnesses are emerging, he said, shedding new light on the tragic incident. His call for justice extends to the Hyatt Regency to release its video footage of the event and to unveil the identities of the security personnel involved. He highlights the need for greater police accountability in situations of excessive force, especially against unarmed Black people, drawing a parallel between Mitchell’s death and the infamous George Floyd case.
No Charges Announced Yet
Despite the outcry, no charges have been filed in connection with Mitchell’s death as yet. The Milwaukee District Attorney’s Office has declared the incident as under further investigation with no established timeline for any charging decision.
A Tragic Loss
Mitchell was reported to be a resident of Milwaukee and father to two young children, aged 6 and 8. Given his mental health struggles, his mother suggests Mitchell may have been suffering a mental health episode during the incident. She also stresses the need for full transparency by demanding the release of all relevant video footage by the hotel.
Initial Investigation Results
According to initial findings of the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office, the preliminary cause of Mitchell’s death was ruled a homicide, which is medically defined as “death ‘at the hands of another’ regardless of intent.” This does not legally implicate anyone and is based primarily on the medical evidence present during investigation.
A Continuing Call for Justice
The disturbing incident has prompted a renewed call for a systemic change in the way law enforcement and security operate, with an emphasis on humane treatment of all individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities. Activists, legal representatives, and the community at large continue to express their solidarity and demand swift justice for Dvontaye Mitchell.
