Gov. John Bel Edwards spoke out on the fatal officer-involved shooting of Alton Sterling, announcing that the Dept. of Justice is taking over the investigation.

Edwards said the investigation of the incident will be conducted "impartially, professionally, and thoroughly" by the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice along with the FBI. He also expressed condolences to the family—mentioning that he spoke with Sandra Sterling, Alton Sterling's aunt.

Sandra Sterling raised Alton Sterling (Alton's mother is deceased)—and together with Gov. Edwards is calling for calm and peaceful protests. The governor reminded residents that "violence and destruction of property is not an answer."

Edwards also mentioned that Colonel Edmondson and Louisiana State Police are prepared to assist in the investigation of the BRPD-involved shooting that resulted in the death of Alton Sterling.

The FBI released the following statement:

The FBI's New Orleans Division, the Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Louisiana have opened a civil rights investigation into the death of Alton Sterling. The Justice Department will collect all available facts and evidence and conduct a fair, thorough and impartial investigation. As this is an ongoing investigation we are not able to comment further at this time.

Baton Rouge Mayor Kip Holden is set to hold a press conference with Baton Rouge Police at 11 a.m.

More From Gator 99.5