LANSING, Mich. – The family of Stephen Romero has filed a $100 million lawsuit against the city of Lansing and Lansing police officers Donovan Moore, Jeff Kurtz, and another unnamed officer for shooting and killing him.
The incident occurred outside of his home on Friday (Dec. 1) after police had been called to the scene for a domestic dispute.
Allegedly, officials commenced an uncoordinated rapid intervention instead of using de-escalation techniques ahead of the shooting.
Romero’s family says he complied with the confusing and conflicting nature of commands that were shouted at him by multiple officers like dropping his phone that was in his hand before submitting by getting on his knees and surrendering.
Allegedly, Romero slowly lowered his left hand at least twice and used it to raise the t-shirt he was wearing, showing officers that he was lawfully possessing a handgun while on his property.
The family says Romero communicated his intent to surrender the gun before Moore and Kurtz allegedly fired a total of 14 rounds at him.
Allegedly, there were approximately seven bullets fired from one of the officer’s Glock 9mm pistol, while the other seven bullets came from an AR-15 style .223 rifle, striking Romero at least six times.
“Mr. Romero was wrongfully killed by a police firing squad, and the Romero family needs answers and justice,” said James Harrington, Vice President and Managing Partner of Fieger Law. “Mr. Romero was complying with every single officer command, and rather than de-escalating the situation, the officers chose to kill a man in front of his family. The police violence must end.”
Romero leaves behind his wife Ashly, a 2-year-old daughter, and three stepchildren, ages seven, 11, and 12.
“The Lansing Police Department works every day to protect the public and respond to violent situations. This matter is the subject of an ongoing investigation and no details or findings have even been released yet. We will await the report from the Michigan State Police and have no comment about any potential legal actions.”
Lansing Mayor Andy Schor