JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Northside Coalition of Jacksonville (NCOJ) has called for a week-long ceasefire beginning Saturday in response to a string of violent shootings, some deadly, in Jacksonville.
The ceasefire extends from 12 p.m. Saturday through March 2, according to Ben Frazier, president of NCOJ.
“We calling for an immediate suspension of violence to be observed by all residents throughout the entire city of Jacksonville,” said Frazier. "We’re asking that anyone involved in potential altercations put an immediate stop action on any plans for conflict or hostilities during this period. No more retaliations! Instead, talk it out, mediate, negotiate and start to resolve conflicts on peaceful grounds."
The ceasefire comes after another violent week in Jacksonville that saw several shootings -- some deadly.
On Friday alone, three shootings were reported within just three hours of each other. One shooting, a domestic disturbance at a townhouse on the Southside, left one man dead, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said.
Another shooting happened in Durkeeville and injured two men. A third incident involved a 16-year-old boy who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, according to police.
On Saturday, a man was rushed to a hospital with life-threatening injuries after he was found shot multiple times at 1343 W. 12th St. in Durkeeville.
The Northside Coalition and other civil rights organizations in Jacksonville issued a statement in regards to potential National Guard deployment to the city.
“The National Guard is not trained in conflict de-escalation, it’s not time for the National Guard to march down Moncrief," Fraizer said.
He added the city must step in and address "underlying causes" that can contribute to violent crime.
"We believe there is a direct connection between poverty, unemployment, economic degradation and gun violence,” said Frazier.
For additional resources from the Northside Coalition of Jacksonville, click here.