Relatives of a Black man who was fatally shot by police in Ohio have reached a settlement in their wrongful death lawsuit. The family of Jayland Walker, who was killed two years ago after officers fired 94 bullets at him during a chase, have agreed to a resolution with the city of Akron. The specific details of the settlement have not been disclosed, as stated in a joint court filing on Tuesday. The family’s legal representatives have indicated that they will hold a news conference to discuss the agreement at a later time, while city officials have refrained from commenting until the settlement receives approval from a judge.
The lawsuit, initiated in June 2023, sought damages of at least $45 million from the involved officers, the city, and officials. Allegations included claims of excessive force during the shooting and involvement in a “culture of violence and racism” within Akron’s police department. The legal action was taken following a grand jury’s decision not to charge the officers in connection with Walker’s death. The officers’ identities have not been made public. Walker, aged 25, was shot during a traffic stop on June 27, 2022, after firing a single bullet from his vehicle and then attempting to evade the pursuing officers, according to a state inquiry. He left his gun in the still-moving car, sparking a situation that stirred tensions between the community and law enforcement.
During the brief encounter, officers believed Walker posed a serious threat, leading them to discharge nearly 100 rounds in less than seven seconds as he allegedly failed to comply with their instructions to raise his hands, as indicated by the state investigation. This incident added to existing concerns surrounding police conduct and heightened emotions within the city. As the settlement proceedings move forward, both parties are looking towards a resolution that will hopefully provide closure for the family of Jayland Walker and address the broader issues of police accountability and community relations.