Community reflects on Jacob Blake shooting, nearly 1 year later

 

KENOSHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- It's been almost a year since the police shooting of Jacob Blake and the unrest that followed.

Those who lived through it share their thoughts about where we were then and where we're at today.

"I recall things kind of escalating incredibly fast."

Protesters set trucks on fire and police hurled tear gas and rubber bullets at the crowd.

Podcaster Koerri Elijah Washington, standing in the area designated for press, got caught in it.

"Seeing everything ablaze, it just was -- honestly, I don't really have words. It was insane."

He still has a scar on his arm from that rubber bullet, but a year later, is thankful to see change.

"The biggest change, I would say, would be in just the general public and the people. People are way more involved in things than they were previously," he said.

Car Source suffered the most extensive damage, losing some 300 cars -- $2.5 million in damage.

Today, the entire fleet is back. Insurance didn't pick it up.

The owner showed us shattered glass and heat damages remain. 

In the business district, most of the spray painted signs of encouragement are gone, and people are out again.

"It's been night and day. It's unbelievable, the city has really come alive," said Andy Bilski, general manager of Tavern on 6th. "People here love this city."

As the anniversary nears, those who witnessed the violence firsthand recall those frightening times.

"I was recovering from being gassed and pouring water down my face, so I can get my sinuses to open up and not even a moment after getting my sinuses to open up, hear a brick or rock or something be thrown to the building next to me," said Tyrone Payton.

An anniversary rally will take place across from the courthouse from 2-8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 21.