Protesters rally at LAPD headquarters over police shootings

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Several hundred protesters took to the streets of Los Angeles Sunday, angry over recent police shootings in Los Angeles and in Ferguson, Missouri.

Many gathered in front of Los Angeles Police Department headquarters rallying in support of Ezell Ford, a 25-year-old man shot and killed by two gang officers.

Ford allegedly tried to grab an officer's gun during a struggle, investigators said.

Family members say he was mentally challenged and harmless. They hope his death will finally bring change.

"We're making an impact out here - making sure that something happens - because it can't just keep going on and on," Ezell Ford's cousin Ceebo said.

LAPD Sgt. Barry Montgomery said the department is hoping to ensure an "open and honest" investigation by bringing in the Inspector General and the district attorney.

Just days after Ford was killed, Omar Abrego, a 37-year-old father of three, was killed in a struggle with police - another example of a deadly encounter with police that protesters say must stop.

"There's been a lot of people that have been killed by police officers. The use of force is a bit excessive. There needs to be more accountability," Hollywood resident Ken Barnard said.

LAPD had extra officers and resources ready if needed, but most gathered said they want to remain peaceful to ensure their message is heard.

"All this needs to stop. If we don't get no justice, there will be no peace," South Los Angeles resident James Law said.