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Police Investigating 'Blue Lives Murder' Graffiti Found Downtown

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – "Blue Lives Matter" has become a slogan to support police across the country after the police shootings in Dallas.

Here in Pittsburgh, the phrase took on a different meaning when someone spray painted "Blue Lives Murder" on a building.

It was found Monday behind the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

Pittsburgh's police chief says the graffiti is something he takes very seriously.

"We're gonna do everything our officers can do to keep themselves save, but we're not gonna do it at the expense of the quality and interactions we have with the public," Pittsburgh Police Chief Cameron McLay said.

Chief McLay addressed the matter saying it's horrifying that officers could be targeted for murder just because they wear a badge.

Rev. Mark Tookes wants to help bridge the gap between police and the African-American community.

"The message in the country right now is 'Black Lives Matter' and it does, but we do recognize really all lives matter and we have some great police in the community out there as well trying to do their job," Rev. Tookes said.

Tookes, who is the executive pastor for the Hill District-based Macedonia Church, believes it's a disconnect between the community and police and that is what has led to what's going on in the country and here in Pittsburgh.

"Violence never has worked. It's just a temporary gratification to someone's anger, but it ultimately leads to more destruction," Rev. Tookes said.

Chief McLay said his department will continue to take down people engaged in violence, but won't allow fear to take over.

"We have our trust gaps and we're making some progress there. It's fragile in other places, certainly with what's happening now, it's fragile everywhere," Chief McLay said.

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