Mothers of police violence victims mark 1 year since teen's death

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A grieving family marks one year since the death of Justus Howell.

The gun-wielding teen was shot by police in Zion.

On Monday, a rally and march were held by other moms who've had children die at the hands of police.

A year ago Monday, 17-year-old Justus Howell was shot to death by Zion police on the corner where a year later, his family was joined by activists and other parents who have lost kids at the hands of the police. Howell's mother marked the one-year anniversary of her son's death with a rally and a federal lawsuit against the Zion Police Department.

"My son was shot in the back," said LaToya Howell.

With videotape and eyewitness accounts, the Lake County state's attorney concluded months ago that the shooting was justified. Police say Howell was running from police after he stole a gun. Investigators say the teen was shot after he slightly turned toward officer Eric Hill. Latoya Howell believes Hill is lying.

After balloons were released for Justus, LaToya Howell led dozens on a march through the streets of Zion to the police department.

"We are trying to raise awareness," she said.

Mothers of children killed by police came to Zion from around the country. LaToya Howell was also joined by Chicago moms, including Quinontio Legrier's mother Janet Cooksey.