Often wrongful death lawsuits are initiated after another party’s act of negligence leads to a person’s death. But the family members of victims of crime can also sue for some degree of compensation after a loved one’s death. A grieving spouse or other family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit to receive compensation for funeral and burial expenses, lost wages the deceased loved one would have received, as well as emotional damages such as mental shock and loss of companionship.
With these issues in mind, South Carolina residents may want to consider the recent shooting death of a young man in Charlotte.
The 24-year-old former college football player relocated to Charlotte roughly a year ago. He had a fiancee and two jobs. His plan was to start taking classes again and get a job as an automotive engineer.
But last week the young man was involved in a serious car accident. Apparently shaken up, he had to break through the back window of the vehicle to get out. He then went up a nearby hill and found a house, where he banged on the door and asked for help.
This all happened at about 2:30 a.m., and a woman who came to the door quickly shut it and called police.
When officers arrived, the young man ran toward them. The officers first used a Taser on the man, then one officer fired 12 bullets at him. Ten of the bullets hit him, and he died at the scene. He was unarmed and apparently only seeking help after an auto accident.
Now the family of the young man is looking for answers.
The shooting officer has been charged with voluntary manslaughter. It remains to be seen whether or not the grieving family will file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Source: ABC News, “Family of Man Shot by Charlotte Cop Wants Answers,” Mitch Weiss and Jeffery Collins, Sept. 16, 2013