Rally for slain Mesa teen also a protest

To the friends and family that joined together Saturday to mourn the loss of a slain teenager, the passionate rally was both a protest and a memorial. The 15-year-old boy, Mario Madrigal Jr., was shot to death in front of his home and his family in 2003 by Mesa police officers, according to reports.

Approximately 50 to 60 people met in front of the Mesa Police Department at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, holding signs of mourning as well as signs of protest against the actions of the department. The rally was the fifth of its kind, held every year on the anniversary of the teen's death.

"We don't want this to happen again to other families," said Mario's father, Mario Madrigal Sr. "I believe we need changes in the tactical procedures for police officers."

The Madrigal family believes their son's death was unnecessary and are seeking charges against the police department.

According to a police report, three officers fired 15 times on Madrigal Jr. after two stun guns were unable to subdue him from swinging a knife in an incident. Madrigal Jr. was hit by 10 bullets, police say.

Police reported to the Madrigal residence on Aug. 25, 2003 when the teen's mother, Martha Madrigal, requested emergency services for her son. She told police that her son was drunk and combative, and she wanted them to take him to therapy.

Police say that Mario Madrigal Jr. swung a knife in the direction of an officer. Police felt the officer was in danger and opened fire.

Mesa police spokesman Detective Steve Berry said Saturday he could not comment on the case due to pending litigation.

"We certainly welcome anyone to peacefully protest," Berry said, adding that the Madrigals' rallies have never turned violent.

Madrigal Sr. said his son was not carrying a weapon on the day he was fatally shot. He said Madrigal Jr. left the knife inside and that officers fired upon the boy as he was being shocked by Tasers.

Madrigal Sr. said the case would be coming to federal court at the end of September but wasn't sure of the exact date.

Past deposition dates for the case were unattended by Madrigal Sr., who said he had not seen the evidence and did not have an attorney.

"(The police) need to understand various moments where they don't need to get into a house with a drawn gun in their hand," Madrigal Sr. said. "We want prosecution for homicide."

The Madrigals found stability in their pastor, Emerito Gonzalez, soon after the shooting occurred.

Gonzalez, a pastor at the Rock Church of Mesa, led the protestors in a march in front ofthe department's building in downtown Mesa, chanting "We Want Justice" and "Long Live Mario."

"I'm happy that this is coming to an end," Gonzalez said.

Sheila Ryan, a supporter from the Women in Black network, a group of women committed to peace and justice, said she stood behind the Madrigal family.

"I feel sorrow for his family but I also feel proud of his family and inspired by his family," Ryan said.Madrigal Sr. is ready to speak in court, he said, and is glad his time has finally come to talk about his son's death.

"The frustration, the pain and horrible moments..." Madrigal Sr. said, trying to describe his feelings. "It's not easy, it's not understandable."