To The Editor
The Manchester NAACP expresses deep concern following the shooting death of Nickenley Turenne, a 24-year-old Black man, during an interaction with the Manchester Police Department after a police pursuit.
According to publicly reported information, Mr. Turenne was involved in a vehicle pursuit that ended in a crash and a brief foot chase. Three Manchester police officers discharged their weapons, fatally striking Mr. Turenne. As of this release, authorities have not publicly stated whether Mr. Turenne was armed.
Being suspected of a crime, being pursued by police, or being afraid is not a death sentence.
The repeated use of lethal force against Black individuals—often followed by limited information and prolonged references to “ongoing investigations”—demands more than silence. Black lives are not collateral damage, and accountability cannot be optional. (BLM statement)
At this time, there has been no public information indicating that Mr. Turenne posed an immediate threat to officers or others, or that the circumstances warranted the use of lethal force. Based on available reports, Mr. Turenne was asleep in his vehicle and attempted to flee. There has been no indication that he attempted to assault officers or use a weapon. These facts raise serious questions about the decision-making that resulted in the death of another young Black man during a law enforcement encounter.
The Manchester NAACP is clear in its expectations:
- We expect accountability from the Manchester Police Department to the residents it serves.
- We expect full transparency in how this investigation is conducted and communicated to the public.
- We are committed to actively monitoring the handling of this case, including investigative processes, findings, and outcomes.
Public trust in law enforcement depends on truth, transparency, and accountability. When these principles are delayed or denied, trust is further eroded—particularly in Black communities that have historically experienced disproportionate harm from the misuse of force. The Manchester NAACP will continue to stand with the community, advocate for justice, and ensure this case is not dismissed, minimized, or forgotten. We call on city leadership and law enforcement officials to recognize the gravity of this moment and respond with urgency and integrity. We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Nickenley Turenne. Justice requires vigilance. The Manchester NAACP will remain vigilant.
Our Mission:
The mission of the Manchester Branch of the NAACP is to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons, to eliminate race-based discrimination, and to promote justice, fairness, and opportunity for all members of the Manchester community.
Our Vision:
The Manchester NAACP envisions a community where equity, accountability, and dignity are fully realized; where institutions serve all people fairly; and where Black lives are protected, valued, and respected without exception.
Arnold M. Mikolo is President, Manchester NAACP.