On August 9, 1991, Michael Stewart, an African American graffiti artist, died in New York after being arrested and allegedly beaten by police officers. Stewarts death was the result of a police struggle when he was detained for defacing a subway train. The incident sparked protests against police brutality and racism in the city. Stewarts case became part of the larger movement for justice for victims of police violence. His death remains a significant moment in the history of police reform in the U.S.