Eric Garner Memorial Burns Down On MLK Day

The New York City Fire Department ruled the incident an accident. But Garner's family members said they suspect arson.

A memorial for Eric Garner, a black man who was killed by a white police officer, burned down in New York City on Monday, the Huffington Post reported.

Garner, a Staten Island resident, died last summer after a New York City Police officer put him in a chokehold while trying to arrest him on suspicion of selling loose cigarettes.

We want JUSTICE for Eric Garner. #FightForEric

The city's medical examiner ruled Garner's death a homicide. But a grand jury declined to charge the cop, Daniel Pantaleo, sparking widespread protests.

The memorial — a small collection of candles and flowers — had been erected at the site of his death by his family and supporters. Garner's daughter, Erica, tweeted that she suspected foul play.

evil set my dads memoral on fire tonight .but cant erase his legacy. rebuild 2morrow #anonymousopfurguson #OpICantBreathe

The New York City Fire Department said the blaze was accidentally ignited by candles. The NYPD told BuzzFeed News it is not investigating.

Just was therea couple of hours ago.cops drove pass my grandpa when he arrived to see the damege #anonymousopferguson

Last September, a similar memorial for Michael Brown, a black teenager who was killed by a white police officer last year in Ferguson, Missouri, also burned down.

Skip to footer