Two years ago, Tarika Wilson was shot and killed at her home in Columbus, Ohio. Recently, her family settled a wrongful death lawsuit with the city of Columbus for $2.5 million. Wilson, unarmed at the time, was shot by a police officer.
The shooting occurred as part of a SWAT team raid of Wilson’s home. Police officers were searching for her boyfriend, who later pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges. One police officer errantly fired three shots into a bedroom containing Wilson and her six children. Wilson was the only person killed during the shooting, although her one-year-old son, who was in her arms at the time, was shot as well. He later had a finger amputated due to the incident.
The officer claimed he believed his life was in danger, even though he could not clearly see into the bedroom to determine who was in the room or whether or not anyone was armed.
Upon approval by a federal judge, the settlement will be placed in a fund to be used for Wilson’s children, who are now being raised by Wilson’s mother and sisters.
The settlement offer was made by the city’s insurance company acting on their behalf. Columbus officials have clearly stated that they still stand behind the actions of the negligent police officer, and that this settlement is not an admission of liability.
If your loved one has died due to the negligent actions of another, you may be entitled to receive compensation from a wrongful death lawsuit. These claims are highly complex and time sensitive. Therefore, it is important to consult an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to begin the filing process.
If you have a wrongful death claim in the Columbus, Ohio area, please contact the law offices of Robert W. Kerpsack CO., L.P.A. today to schedule your free initial consultation.
