Tentative Settlement Reached in Police Shooting of Gulf War Veteran
Sheriff Doug Gillespie of the Las Vegas Metro Police announced a tentative $1.5 million settlement with the widow of a Gulf War veteran who was killed during a police shooting in December 2011. Rondha Gibson filed a lawsuit against the department in U.S. District Court, alleging violations of her husband’s civil rights.
Deadly Shooting Incident
On December 12, 2011, police responded to the Alondra Condominiums following reports of an attempted burglary by a man driving a white Cadillac. The suspect vehicle, driven by Stanley Gibson, a Gulf War veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), returned to the complex.
Police report that Gibson refused commands to exit the vehicle and rammed a patrol car while revving the engine and spinning the tires. A plan was made to fire a bean-bag round into the vehicle, but Officer Jesus Arevalo mistakenly believed the round came from the suspect and fired seven shots from his rifle, killing Gibson.
Hasty Plan and Communication Failures
A Police Fatality Public Fact-Finding Review concluded that a hasty change in the plan and inadequate communication between law enforcement officials contributed to the death of this Gulf War veteran.
While a Clark County grand jury declined to indict Officer Arevalo, his future with the Metro Police remains uncertain. He has undergone the Use of Force Review Board process and an internal predetermination board hearing. The final decision rests with Sheriff Gillespie.
Legal Options for Wrongful Death
When negligent actions of another person contribute to injury or death, a wrongful death claim may be appropriate. Families affected by such tragedies can seek justice and compensation.
Contact the Dallas-Fort Worth lawyers at Frenkel & Frenkel to schedule a free initial consultation regarding incidents where injuries or deaths may have been caused or worsened by negligence.