Boston Police Officer Charged with Manslaughter in Shooting Death of Black Man

Family calls for release of body camera footage as investigation continues

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:54pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car window reflecting a faint red light, conveying the somber and investigative mood surrounding a police shooting incident.The family's demand for body camera footage aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding a fatal police shooting that has shaken the community.Boston Today

The family of Stephenson King Jr., a 39-year-old Black man fatally shot by a Boston police officer on March 11, is calling for the release of body camera footage of the incident. Former officer Nicholas O'Malley has been charged with voluntary manslaughter and had his law enforcement certification suspended. The Suffolk County District Attorney's Office says it will not release the footage at this time to avoid compromising the ongoing investigation and prosecution.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and communities of color, as well as debates around police use of force, transparency, and accountability. The family's call for the release of body camera footage reflects a desire for the 'truth to be revealed' about the circumstances surrounding King's death.

The details

According to authorities, King was pursued by police as a suspect in an unarmed carjacking. When approached by officers, he refused to exit his vehicle and attempted to drive away. Former officer O'Malley then fired three shots through the driver's side of the car, striking and killing King. Prosecutors say O'Malley's actions violated state law and police department procedures, as King did not drive at the officers and they were not in the vehicle's path when O'Malley opened fire.

  • The incident occurred on March 11, 2026.
  • O'Malley was arraigned and pleaded not guilty on March 19, 2026.
  • O'Malley's law enforcement certification was suspended on March 19, 2026.
  • A probable cause hearing is scheduled for May 21, 2026.

The players

Stephenson King Jr.

A 39-year-old Black man who was fatally shot by a Boston police officer.

Stephenson King Sr.

The father of Stephenson King Jr., a retired law enforcement officer who is 'broken-hearted' over his son's death.

Nicholas O'Malley

A former Boston police officer who has been charged with voluntary manslaughter for the shooting death of Stephenson King Jr.

Ben Crump

The family attorney representing the King family, who is calling for the release of body camera footage.

Kevin Hayden

The Suffolk County District Attorney who announced the charges against O'Malley and stated that the body camera footage will not be released at this time.

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What they’re saying

“I am hurt, disappointed in everything that has happened.”

— Stephenson King Sr., Father of Stephenson King Jr.

“That police officer on the side of that street was the judge, the jury and the executioner.”

— Ben Crump, Family Attorney

“Transparency is good for all of us. It's good for the family and it's good for the Boston Police Department.”

— Ben Crump, Family Attorney

What’s next

A probable cause hearing for the case against former officer Nicholas O'Malley is scheduled for May 21, 2026.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the ongoing need for police accountability, transparency, and reform to build trust between law enforcement and communities of color. The family's call for the release of body camera footage reflects a desire for the full truth to emerge and for justice to be served.