Latasha Harlins

Latasha Harlins (1976-1991) was shot and killed by Soon Ja Du, a Korean-American liquor store owner. Although the store, Empire Liquor, was normally staffed by Du's husband and son, she was working behind the counter the morning of March 16, 1991, because her son had received death threats from gang members and her husband was out resting. Harlins' death came just 13 days after the videotaped beating of Rodney King by LAPD officers.

Related Topics:
1976 - 1991 - Soon Ja Du - Korean-American - March 16 - Rodney King - LAPD

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In a video captured by the security camera in the store, Latasha Harlins, a fifteen-year-old African-American girl, was seen putting a bottle of juice in her backpack. Empire Liquor had suffered from frequent shoplifting and burglary. Du confronted Harlins by grabbing her sweater. In the video, during the dispute, Harlins punches Du four times and Du throws a stool in response. Harlin withdraws and walks away but is shot in the back. Du then passes out.{{ref|video}} Du's husband, Billy Heung Ki Du, heard the shot and rushed into the store to dial 9-1-1. However, it was too late; Harlins was dead. Du would be convicted of voluntary manslaughter and given an unusually light sentence of 5 years probation, community service, and fines. The incident as well as the sentencing by the court would result in a wave of hate crimes committed by African-Americans against Korean-Americans prior to the 1992 Los Angeles riots. During the riots, resentment against Korean-Americans resulted in the looting and torching of hundreds of Korean-owned businesses. It was also a pivotal factor in causing the Los Angeles riots.

Related Topics:
African-American - 9-1-1 - 1992 Los Angeles riots

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