A family in New Jersey is seeking explanations after a woman was killed by police officers in New Brunswick.
Some claim she faced mental health challenges and that the shooting might have been avoided.
Video captures fatal police shooting in New Brunswick
The incident took place on August 8 within a structure located on Nielson Street.
The police received an early morning call from neighbors regarding Deborah Terril, 68, who was seen with a knife and walking back and forth in the hallway.
A video recorded on a mobile phone and shared by Terril's family depicts at least four police officers arriving and attempting to communicate with Terril, who was inside her apartment behind a closed door.
Authorities state that Terril left her apartment carrying a knife, and police attempted to restrain her using pepper spray and a Taser.
The video then depicts an officer collapsing to the ground. Shortly after, a gunshot is heard, and Terril is hit by a bullet, resulting in his death.
CBS News New York contacted the New Brunswick Police Department and has not received a response yet.
Family demanding responsibility from the police department
Family members state that Terril had been struggling with schizophrenia for a long time.
"They didn't allow her a chance to reply to the order," said nephew Tormel Pittman.
Terril was a mother and a great-grandmother.
"Her home was always welcoming to all, you understand. She extended invitations and provided childcare for her great nieces and nephews," Pittman mentioned.
Pittman stated that he is seeking the response to a single straightforward question.
What occurred? And it appears no one can provide an answer to that," he stated. "We won't receive a truthful response because they are avoiding responsibility.
The office of the New Jersey attorney general is conducting an investigation, but it may take several weeks or even months before they disclose their results.
In the interim, relatives state they will continue to advocate for responsibility and for modifications in how law enforcement handles individuals experiencing emergencies.