Minneapolis is on fire in the wake of the death of George Floyd, 46, a black man who died in police custody after an officer kneeled on his neck for eight minutes. Protesters are demanding justice. While rioting and looting are never great reactions, what is the proper response to what sure seems like stupid, and possibly malicious, police conduct?

Floyd’s death is a tragedy and travesty. He was arrested outside a convenience store after a report of a counterfeit bill being passed. Police must have already rounded up all the murderers and rapists in Minneapolis to spring into action so quickly on this case. Four officers were involved, and all four have been fired in the wake of Floyd’s death.

Yes, an investigation is necessary. All the facts are needed, and we understand the police union’s call to consider the officers innocent until proven guilty. Of course, Floyd really does not seem to have enjoyed that same right. The FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office in Minneapolis are investigating the matter as a criminal probe and a civil rights case. We hope results are forthcoming soon.

We will remain baffled by the actions of police, as it is difficult to understand why a suspect cannot be cuffed and put into a squad car rather than essentially strangled to death in the street. (Floyd was, indeed, already cuffed.) Are four officers not enough to subdue someone?

We hope there is justice for George Floyd, and that no one else becomes a casualty amid the riots. We fear this tragedy will be compounded by more violence.