Philadelphia Settles Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed By Family Of Walter Wallace Jr.
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The City of Philadelphia has settled a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of Walter Wallace Jr. Lawyers for the family announced the details at City Hall on Thursday.
It includes a demand from the family for the city to equip all patrol officers with tasers.
Last October, Philadelphia police shot and killed Wallace at his West Philadelphia home.
Wallace was having a mental health crisis and was armed with a knife.
The settlement also includes an undisclosed financial payment to the family.
"Those terms were never their primary objective in their calls for justice after Walter's death. Rather they have been focused on establishing the lasting change to the city that they are confident will save lives through the agreement and injunctive relief," Shaka Johnson, Wallace's family attorney, said.
So far, the city has declined to release the amount of the settlement, but Mayor Jim Kenney released a statement Thursday night about the payment.
"I recognize that this is a very difficult time for the family of Walter Wallace, Jr. and for the entire city of Philadelphia," Kenney said. "The killing of Mr. Wallace, Jr. was painful and traumatic for many Philadelphians. This tragic and unsettling incident, along with last year's protests, underscored the urgency of many important reforms such as mental health training and crisis response resources. I am committed to making lasting reforms that will ensure that all Philadelphians have the safety and available supports that they deserve.
"In the last year, the City has worked across institutions, departments, community leaders, and organizations to enact meaningful reforms, reimagine public safety, and advance racial justice. While our work is not done, we remain strongly committed to these goals and to making our city the best, fairest, and most equitable that it can be. I am resolved to devote every remaining day in this office to bringing about justice and true equity in our city."
