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25th Aug 2020

Clashes at protest in America over police shooting of black man

Rudi Kinsella

Jacob Blake was shot in the back at least five times while his children watched.

Police in America have clashed with protesters following the shooting of Jacob Blake.

Blake, a 29-year-old, was shot in the back multiple times by police on Sunday, with his three children watching.

Blake was airlifted to hospital in serious condition, but local media reported on Monday afternoon that his family said he was out of surgery and that his condition was improving.

Footage of the shooting was shared widely on social media, and has resulted in large-scale protests in Wisconsin. Celebrities including LeBron James and Cardi B shared the footage on their social media accounts.

Police and protesters have clashed in Wisconsin, with local police attempting to deal with the crowd by using tear gas.

Protesters have launched fireworks and bottles at officers according to reports, while a number of major fires have been lit in the area.

Witnesses have said that Blake was trying to break up a fight between two women when the officers arrived.

His lawyer has said that it is a “miracle” that he is still alive.