US Attorney General: Trayvon Martin Death `Unnecessary Shooting’

Attorney General Eric Holder says the Justice Department will follow "the facts and the law'' as it reviews evidence to see whether federal criminal charges are warranted against George Zimmerman in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin.

In his first comments since the acquittal of the neighborhood watch volunteer, the attorney general called Martin's killing a "tragic, unnecessary shooting.'' Holder says that Martin's parents have suffered a pain that no parent should have to endure.

The attorney general added that the nation must not forgo an opportunity toward better understanding of one another, saying the 17-year-old's death provides an opportunity for the nation to speak honestly about complicated and emotionally charged issues.

On Sunday, the Justice Department said it is reviewing evidence in the case to determine whether criminal civil rights charges are warranted.

The Justice Department opened an investigation into Martin's death last year but stepped aside to allow the state prosecution to proceed.