Zion I rapper Zumbi died last summer.
After his death, the San Francisco Chronicle reported he had been hospitalized for COVID-19.
Shortly after, Berkeley police Lt. Melanie Turner says police responded to multiple calls alleging that a patient was involved in a physical altercation with nurses and security officers.
They said when they arrived, “officers started handcuffing the involved person and determined that he needed immediate medical assistance” but that while they tried to save his life, “unfortunately and sadly he was pronounced deceased on the scene.”
His mother says he wants Berkely officers to continue investigating as her son was killed.
“I am dedicated to seeking justice for his killing. My son did not die from COVID. My son did not die from a heart attack. We are waiting for the Berkeley police to complete their homicide investigation,” Carolyn Gaines writes in a statement. “They say their delay is caused by not having a completed coroner’s report. I beg the officials to complete their official duties. I pray that as soon as the Alameda County District Attorney reviews the evidence that they will prosecute Alta Bates, Allied Universal and their employees for killing my beautiful son.”
