Eric Holder Says Shooting of Trayvon Martin Was Tragic and Unnecessary

DOJ is set to review evidence in the case

WASHINGTON (AP)—Attorney General Eric Holder says the killing of Trayvon Martin was a tragic, unnecessary shooting and that the 17-year-old's death provides an opportunity for the nation to speak honestly about complicated and emotionally charged issues.

In prepared remarks—Holder's first public comments since the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the case—the attorney general says Monday that Martin's parents have suffered a pain that no parent should have to endure. He said the nation must not forgo an opportunity toward better understanding of one another.