Who Is Killing of Elijah McClain? Age, Biography and Wiki
Elijah McClain was born on February 25, 1996, and tragically lost his life at the young age of 23 on August 30, 2019, while in police custody in Aurora, Colorado. His death raised significant public outcry and led to widespread protests, becoming a focal point in the Black Lives Matter movement. McClain was known for his kind heart and gentle spirit, often volunteering and caring for animals, which left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
| Occupation | Criminal |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 25, 1996 |
| Age | 23 Years |
| Birth Place | Aurora, Colorado, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 30 August, 2019 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Killing of Elijah McClain's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Elijah McClain stood approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall (168 cm), and weighed around 140 pounds (63.5 kg). His slender build complemented his active lifestyle, as he often engaged in physical activities like dancing, which he loved.
On the evening of August 24, 2019, an Aurora civilian called 9-1-1 reporting a male around Billings Street and Evergreen Avenue walking south on Billings Street wearing a ski mask and flailing his arms. The caller affirmed during the call that he did not believe the person was armed and that he did not believe that anyone was in immediate danger.
Friends of McClain interviewed after the incident speculated that this arm-flailing was most likely just dancing, as he is believed to have been listening to music at the time of the call. McClain was dressed warmly and was wearing a ski mask because he had a blood circulation disorder that caused him to chill easily.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Details regarding Elijah McClain's family are limited, although he was known to have a close relationship with his mother and other family members. At the time of his passing, McClain was not publicly known to be in a romantic relationship. His kindness and compassion were evident in his interactions with friends and family.
McClain's mother, Sheneen, moved her family of six from Denver to Aurora to avoid gang violence. She said Elijah was home-schooled and she could see at an early age that he was "intellectually gifted, but fiercely independent". While still a teenager, he taught himself to play violin and guitar.
During lunch breaks, he played his instruments at animal shelters to soothe the abandoned animals. Friends said that his gentleness with animals extended to humans as well. One of his clients recalled him as "the sweetest, purest person I have ever met. He was definitely a light in a whole lot of darkness".
An acquaintance said, "I don't even think he would set a mousetrap if there was a rodent problem."
Net Worth and Salary
Although specific figures regarding Elijah McClain's net worth at the time of his death are not well-documented, it is estimated that he had a modest income primarily from his role as a massage therapist. Following his death, significant fundraising efforts in his honor have raised charitable funds, contributing to his legacy and ongoing impact on social justice.
McClain's family subsequently filed a civil rights lawsuit against the city of Aurora, Colorado. A preliminary settlement agreement was announced on October 18, 2021. The agreement was finalized following a mediation hearing in U.S. District Court on November 19, 2021, with the city of Aurora agreeing to pay $15 million to McClain's family.
Career, Business, and Investments
Elijah McClain was a certified massage therapist and had aspirations to further his career in the health and wellness field. He was passionate about helping people and often shared his skills with others. His dedication to his profession and community remains a testament to his character and the impact he had on those around him.
On June 10, three members of the city public safety policy committee sent City Manager Jim Twombly a letter asking for a new "neutral, third-party" look at McClain's death.
Twombly responded saying that the city had already initiated an independent review of his death under the direction of Eric Daigle, a former Connecticut state police officer and attorney who now consults on the use of force and related policies.
Council members replied saying they were not satisfied with the city's choice of a former police officer: "[We] don't consider Eric Daigle to be independent and neutral due to his long career in law enforcement. We need a truly independent review."
Social Network
Before his passing, Elijah McClain was active on social media, where he expressed his thoughts and shared his experiences. Although he had a relatively modest following, his account garnered increased attention posthumously, as people sought to celebrate his life and amplify his story.
During the Sudanese civil war (2023-present), social media users circulated a photo which they claimed was of faction leader Hemedti hospitalized in Nairobi, Kenya. It was subsequently debunked and identified as an edited photo of McClain.
Education
Elijah McClain pursued education in the field of healthcare, culminating in his certification as a massage therapist. He was known for his intellect and mindfulness, often practicing a holistic lifestyle that reflected his values of compassion and empathy towards others.
The attorney for McClain's family, Mari Newman, said that medics had no right or reason to inject Elijah with ketamine and has asked for an investigation.
Neuroscientist Carl Hart, chair of Columbia University's psychology department, commented, "Why anyone would be giving ketamine in that circumstance is beyond me." The American Medical Association, the American Psychiatric Association, and the World Health Organization do not recognize the condition known as excited delirium.
Paul Appelbaum, who oversees changes to psychiatry's main diagnostic manual, has commented, "excited delirium is bad science, based on faulty studies that grew out of the 1980s cocaine epidemic." Carl Takei, a senior staff attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union who focuses on police practices, said "ascribing a person's actions to excited
delirium can create a shield for officers who use excessive force".
Conclusion
Elijah McClain's story is a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles for justice and equality. Through exploring his biography, relationships, and the subsequent movements sparked by his tragic death, we can honor his memory and continue the conversation about police reform and social justice. As the world reflects on his legacy in 2025, it remains clear that 'Justice for Elijah' transcends mere hashtags, embodying a broader call for systemic change and compassion in our communities.
