1971 public disorder in Camden, New Jersey following the killing of a Puerto Rican motorist Rafael Rodriguez Gonzales by police officers
The 1971 Camden Riot highlighted racial and ethnic tensions between Hispanic residents and white police, prompting a mayoral state of emergency and officer suspensions.
Key Facts
- Date of riots
- August 20, 1971
- Major fires set
- 15
- People injured
- 90
- Curfew imposed
- 8 p.m. to 7 a.m.
- Victim
- Rafael Rodriguez Gonzales, Puerto Rican motorist
- Officers' final verdict
- Acquitted by jury
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
White police officers killed Puerto Rican motorist Rafael Rodriguez Gonzales. When authorities initially declined to charge the officers, Hispanic residents organized protests demanding suspensions. The officers were eventually charged but kept on duty, sustaining community anger and distrust of local law enforcement.
On August 20, 1971, riots erupted in Camden, New Jersey. Fifteen major fires were set across the city before order was restored. Ninety people were injured during the unrest, which reflected deep grievances among the city's Hispanic population over police conduct and accountability.
Mayor Joseph M. Nardi Jr. declared a state of emergency the day after the riot and imposed a nightly curfew from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. City officials suspended the officers involved. The officers were nonetheless acquitted by a jury, leaving unresolved tensions over police accountability in Camden.
Political Outcome
Officers suspended by city officials but ultimately acquitted by jury; mayor declared state of emergency and imposed curfew