Tensions ran high Wednesday night in New Brunswick, as hundreds of demonstrators protested the fatal police shooting of 68-year-old Deborah Terrell, who was killed during what her family describes as a mental health crisis.

Protestors filled the street outside 25 Civic Square and filled a packed city council meeting to demand answers and accountability. According to authorities, Terrell was holding a knife and threatening other residents.

Police used a taser and pepper spray on Terrell before fatally shooting her. Her family believes the situation could have and should have been handled differently.

“Right now I’m devastated,” said Dupre McCalla, Terrell’s nephew. “My aunt meant everything to our family.”

Demonstrators chanted Terrell’s name in the streets and banged on the glass doors of the building, demanding entry, as several officers explained that the chambers were at capacity. Inside, hundreds of community members took turns expressing their anger and grief.

“It didn’t have to go like that,” said Wanda Stokes, Terrell’s childhood friend. “Four cops, one girl. They could have stopped this. She didn’t weigh more than me. She’s a grandmother. She’s a mother. She’s somebody’s sister. It really didn’t have to go like that.”

Several residents called on City Council President John Anderson to host a town hall with the mayor and police chief, who weren’t at the meeting. Anderson told News 12 that he would do so.

“We’re going to give [the case] to the state Attorney General, as required by law,” said Anderson. “We gave [the public] more than the five minutes they’re allowed because people grieve in different ways.”

At one point, tears ran down the face of Council Member Glen Fleming, as he was visibly distressed by the killing. But residents want to see action.

Among those moved to action was 81-year-old Beverly Marshall, who said the loss of her friend has inspired her to consider running for office.

“It took her death to wake this city up,” Marshall said. “I hope [the council] comes out and does the right thing, but we need to run for office and it should be on our terms.”

The New Jersey Office of the Attorney General has launched an investigation into the incident. As of now, no charges have been filed.