Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton has asked the Department of Justice to begin an immediate independent federal investigation into Philando Castile’s killing.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community of Philando Castile,” Dayton said in a statement. “Our state today grieves with them.”
Police shot and killed Castile, 32, Wednesday evening following a traffic stop. Castile’s girlfriend Diamond Reynolds, who was also in the car along with her daughter, filmed the aftermath of the shooting, and the harrowing video was posted online. Late Wednesday, protesters demonstrated in front of the governor’s mansion and demanded action from Dayton.
The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is currently investigating this killing at a state level.
“I will do everything in my power to help protect the integrity of that investigation, to ensure a proper and just outcome for all involved,” Dayton said.
A Justice Department spokesperson said that the Department is prepared to conduct further investigation and consider this incident under applicable federal law.
“The Department of Justice will continue to monitor the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension investigation into the death of Philando Castile and stands ready to provide assistance to the Bureau as needed,” a Justice Department spokesperson told TIME.
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