Danville police and community come together for cookout

DANVILLE, Va. (WSET) -- Many people including police officers in Danville gathered Sunday afternoon at Doyle Thomas Park for something positive.

"This is not a fix, but it's a step in the right direction, so it's good stuff," said Danville Police Chief Scott Booth.

The officer-involved shooting that claimed the life of 25-year-old Juan Jones was only two weeks ago, but police and some in the community are working towards building a better relationship.

"We're out here together having constructive dialogue, kids are playing basketball, using a bouncy house," Booth said.

Two citizens, Jada Baskin and Erick Ferguson, who were also active in the community led protests after Juan Jones' death, organized the barbecue.

They both are looking to bring peace to the community, especially for the youth.

"They needed an event like this to bring everyone together, so that we can all be one. Everyone is having a good time, so I'm excited about that," Baskin said.

"We are just trying to show unity honestly with the kids. Show them that both sides of the city can come together," Ferguson said.

Baskin said the relationship with police seems be headed in the right direction.

"I just have a feeling it's going to go back to how it's supposed to be and how it used to be. We are all going to be a real community," Baskin said.

Chief Booth hopes to see more positive gatherings like this in the city.

"I want to see more of this. In my perfect world, in the city of Danville, we have something like this every weekend," Booth said.