Eric Garner was born on September 15, 1970 in New York. He grew up in a close-knit family and was raised with strong values of kindness and generosity. From a young age, Garner showed a passion for nature and gardening, which would later lead him to pursue a career as a city park horticulturist.
Throughout his life, Garner faced various challenges and controversies. In 2014, he was arrested for both marijuana possession and the sale of untaxed cigarettes. Despite these legal issues, Garner was known by his friends and neighbors as a loving father and a good-hearted individual.
On July 17, 2014, Eric Garner's life came to a tragic end when he was placed in a chokehold by New York City police officer Daniel Pantaleo. The violent encounter led to Garner going into cardiac arrest and ultimately passing away. His death was ruled a homicide, sparking widespread outrage and protests across the nation.
Garner's asthma and weight were identified as potential contributing factors to his untimely death. However, medical examiners determined that the illegal chokehold administered by the police officer was the primary cause of Garner's fatal heart attack. The incident raised important discussions on police brutality and racial profiling.
Following Garner's death, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio convened a roundtable discussion in the summer of 2014 with local politicians and law enforcement officials. The tragic events surrounding Garner's demise brought to light the systemic issues of racial injustice and excessive use of force within the police force.
Eric Garner's memory lives on through his six children and the countless individuals who continue to advocate for justice in his name. His story serves as a solemn reminder of the need for accountability and reform within law enforcement agencies to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.