Friend of slain NCCU student protests in downtown Durham
Questions remain around the shooting death of a North Carolina Central University student.
DeAndre Ballard, a senior, was killed by a security guard at an off-campus apartment complex last week.
One of Ballard's high school friends continues his protest for answers in the middle of Durham, at CCB Plaza.
Saturday was day three for Brian Best.
“People are watching, just not enough people, I think,” Best said.
He’s held handmade signs in downtown Durham. They tell Ballard’s story, Best said.
“This is a high school friend of mine, DeAndre Ballard, who was shot and killed by a security guard in his own apartment complex,” Best said.
The security company that employs the guard who shot Ballard said the guard acted in self-defense.
Family members say they were told Ballard was breaking into cars. They question that.
Best said it does not sound like his high school friend.
“Those who knew DeAndre, it couldn’t be more out of character for him,” Best said.
That's part of the reason Best sits out here. He said he wants more answers from police.
And he wants to keep his friend's story on the street.
“I’ve gotten several honks over the last couple days, waves,” Best said.
There are more hand-made signs sitting at his feet. Best has invited others to join him.
If they don't, he said, that’s OK. He plans on continuing “as long as it takes,” he said.
Soon, someone walked up.
“Can I grab a sign?” he asked Best.
"Yeah," Best replied. "Thanks for coming out here."
