2 Canton officers charged in Frank Tyson’s death

Two Canton officers have been charged with third-degree felonies in connection with the death of Frank Tyson, according to the Stark County Sheriff’s Office.

According to authorities, Beau Schoenegge and Camden Burch have been charged with reckless homicide.

What happened?

On April 19, Canton police reported that a 53-year-old man, later identified as Frank Tyson, died in police custody after fleeing a single-car crash.

According to Canton police, officers found a utility pole in the road and Tyson’s vehicle unoccupied. Police located Tyson a short distance away after witnesses directed them to the AMVETS cabin down the street.

Canton police said Tyson struggled with officers during his arrest and became unresponsive after being placed in handcuffs. CPR and several doses of Narcan were administered before paramedics arrived.

Tyson was taken to Aultman Hospital, where police say he was pronounced dead at 9:18 p.m.

Canton police later released video footage of Tyson’s arrest. In the video, Tyson says, “They’re trying to kill me,” and also says, “I can’t breathe.”

Community reaction

American civil rights activist Reverend Al Sharpton gave the eulogy at the funeral. Among those who spoke was attorney Ben Crump, who represented the families of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, as well as Tyson’s family.

During the eulogy, Sharpton asked the community, “Stand up for Frank Tyson!”

rev. Al Sharpton delivers the eulogy at Frank Tyson’s funeral

In May, protesters staged a demonstration for Tyson at Central Plaza in downtown Canton.

“In 2020, when it was George Floyd, it was a different time. I know I had a lot less to lose at the time, but this is just as important,” said Sierra Mason, a local community activist.

Protesters for “Justice for Frank Tyson” in Canton Friday night

Death has officially ruled it a homicide

On August 12, News 5 reported that the Stark County Coroner’s Office ruled Tyson’s death a homicide.

Once again, a controversial arrest technique was at the center of the case. This time, it was in Tyson’s famous death in Canton.

Noted police expert and law professor Seth Stoughten found Tyson’s death stunning in the post-George Floyd era.

Controversial arrest tactic front and center in Frank Tyson case

What’s next?

Stark County Prosecutor Kyle L. Stone announced Friday that a press conference for the grand jury decision in Tyson’s will be held on Nov. 2 at 12 p.m.

News 5 will be present.

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