Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old father and photography enthusiast, was brutally attacked and killed by five Memphis police officers on January 7th while on his way home from taking pictures of the sky. His friends and family are mourning the loss of a joyful and lovable young man who was described as “damn near perfect.”
Growing up in Sacramento, California, Nichols spent much of his time at a local skate park where he quickly became a regular, bringing his energetic spirit and quick wit. He was well-liked by many and was known for his kindness and willingness to help others. He was an avid skateboarder and had a passion for photography, which he used to express himself and capture the world around him.
In Memphis, where he had recently moved to be with his mother, Nichols went to Starbucks every morning and would often chat with Nate Spates Jr. about sports or life. Spates described him as having “such a good spirit and soul and calm presence.”
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Nichols was also a dedicated father to his 4-year-old son and worked hard to be the best father he could be. He was deeply loved by his family, and his mother has said that she raised him to love everyone openly and that he was quick to make friends.
The officers involved in his death have been charged with second-degree murder and other offenses. Friends and family of Nichols are devastated by the loss of such a kind and caring person who had so much to offer the world.
“It’s honestly pretty devastating to see such a good human go through such unnecessary brutality, such unnecessary death,” said Brian Jang, a friend of Nichols.
Nichols’s legacy lives on through his photography, which he shared on his website “This California Kid,” inviting others to see the world through his eyes. His tragic loss made people who loved him devastated and confused about why it had to happen. His photographs captured the beauty of the world around him, from the glow of sunsets to the neon lights of Beale Street at night. He was a talented photographer who loved life and had a story to tell through his lens.
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