From [HERE] and  [MORE] Witnesses to the fatal police shooting of an unarmed Black man disputed official accounts of the incident Thursday, saying Kenny Releford, thought by neighbors to be mentally ill, had his hands over his head when the officer fired. The incident, which occurred at the intersection of Sampson and Francis about 12:10 a.m. Thursday, marks the second time in less than a month that an officer-involved shooting drew criticism for how police handled a suspect with possible mental problems.

In the latest incident, police spokesman John Cannon said Officer J. Rosemon  went to Releford's home and asked to speak with him. Releford stepped onto his porch with his left arm behind his back, Cannon said, disregarding the officer's command to keep his hands in plain sight.

Then, Cannon said, Releford began screaming at the officer, moving toward him with his hand still concealed. Again Rosemon ordered the man to stop, but Releford continued to advance, the spokesman said. When Releford stepped within five feet of the officer, Rosemon, fearing for his life, fired two shots, Cannon said. Releford was taken to Ben Taub General Hospital, where he later died. Neighbors, though, told a dramatically different story.

A neighbor spoke with the media after the incident and disputed the officer’s claims that Releford wasn’t listening to his commands. She also said the suspect had both his hands in the air.