Tensions Rise Across Somerset After Indigenous Teen Fatally Shot by Police During Traffic Stop; Rights Groups Demand Immediate Action and Accountability….See more

Tensions Rise Across Somerset After Indigenous Teen Fatally Shot by Police During Traffic Stop; Rights Groups Demand Immediate Action and Accountability

Somerset, UK – May 22, 2025 — Tensions have reached a boiling point across Somerset after a fatal police shooting involving a 17-year-old Indigenous boy during what authorities described as a “routine traffic stop.” The incident, which took place late Monday night in the town of Westover, has sparked widespread outrage, vigils, and a growing chorus of calls for justice from human rights organizations and local community leaders.

According to an initial statement from the Somerset Police Department, officers pulled over a vehicle just after 10:30 p.m. for what they claimed was a suspected traffic violation. Authorities allege that an “altercation” occurred, during which one of the officers discharged his weapon, fatally striking the teenager, who has since been identified as Isaac Redfern, a member of the Mendip First Nations community.

Redfern was pronounced dead at the scene. No weapons were reportedly found on him or in the vehicle, according to multiple eyewitnesses and sources close to the investigation.

The incident has sent shockwaves through Somerset’s Indigenous and wider communities, prompting spontaneous protests across multiple towns including Bathpool, Glastonbury, and Bridgwater. Protesters are demanding transparency, accountability, and an immediate independent investigation into the shooting.

“We are heartbroken and furious,” said Marlene Redfern, Isaac’s aunt, speaking during a tearful press conference organized by the Mendip First Nations Council. “He was just a boy—funny, smart, respectful. Now he’s gone because of an overreaction, because of who he was.”

Footage captured by a bystander, which has since gone viral, appears to contradict key aspects of the police narrative. In the video, Redfern is seen standing beside the car with his hands up before shots are fired. Advocates argue that the footage raises serious questions about the officers’ actions and decision-making during the encounter.

In response, Somerset Police Chief Gregory Huxley has placed the officer involved on administrative leave and has requested an “external review” by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). “We understand the community’s grief and anger,” Huxley stated. “We are committed to full transparency and cooperation with the independent investigation.”

However, rights groups say more urgent measures are needed. Amnesty International UK and the Indigenous Justice Network have called for the immediate release of body camera footage and for the officer to be suspended without pay pending investigation.

“This is not an isolated incident,” said Dr. Leona Marsh, spokesperson for the Indigenous Justice Network. “This is part of a broader pattern of systemic racism and disproportionate use of force against Indigenous people by law enforcement in the UK.”

In Parliament, opposition leaders have begun pressing the Home Office for answers. MP Clara Windsor of the Green Party described the shooting as “a national tragedy and a moral crisis,” demanding a full parliamentary inquiry into policing practices involving Indigenous and minority communities.

Meanwhile, thousands gathered in a candlelight vigil in Westover on Tuesday night, where chants of “Justice for Isaac” echoed through the streets. Several demonstrators held signs reading “We Are Not Threats” and “Indigenous Lives Matter,” while others shared stories of over-policing and discrimination in their communities.

Local schools and businesses have also joined in showing support, with many flying flags at half-mast and organizing healing circles and educational forums on Indigenous rights and systemic racism.

As pressure mounts on officials to act decisively, the Redfern family and community members say they will not rest until justice is served. “We demand the truth,” said Marlene Redfern. “We demand change—not just for Isaac, but for every Indigenous child who deserves to grow up safe.”

The IOPC has stated that a preliminary report will be issued within two weeks, but many are skeptical that justice will be delivered swiftly—or at all.

For now, Somerset remains on edge, grappling with grief, fury, and a deepening mistrust in the institutions sworn to protect all its citizens.