[Hugh the Scot]

Nobody on earth is more annoyed by idiots wandering in the middle of the street than I am. It happens in my neighborhood EVERY DAY... That being said, who gave the police the authority to "order" citizens to move out of their way?
I honk and harass them until they move. If someday I am attacked for doing so, I will defend myself.
The story here seems to be the Police officer ordered the man out of the street and was ignored. Then, instead of moving on to some legitimate piece of business, escalated the situation by getting out of the car for a physical confrontation.
Who's fault is that?
walking in the street isn't a criminal act, but not immediately complying with a cop's "orders" may get you shot? And that's okay?
I'm not defending the decedent's actions, but there is something fundamentally wrong with this concept.

[dfwgator]

Jaywalking is against the law.

[SgtHooper]

I understand your position. But people walking in the streets is a hazard to no only people driving on those streets but also to those in the street. If the walker was clipped by a car, here comes the lawsuit, possible medical expenses, etc., all acts against the public interest. From the facts, the police told the walker to get back on the sidewalk, which is a proper warning. Apparently the walker refused. Bad move. The whole thing then escalated. Again, based only on some of the “facts” presented, I support the blue on this one.

[SgtHooper]

Ok, if it is not illegal to walk in the street, I agree with your every point. I find that hard to believe, though. That it occurs everyday in your neighborhood is irrelevant! Laws are enforced in different ways in different areas, unfortunately, but if actually a law, it still is illegal.