DETROIT – A Detroit mother of five has filed a $25 million federal civil rights lawsuit against the City of Detroit and Police Officer Zachary Melvin after being shot six times during what began as a routine traffic stop.
Tracey Allen survived the October 2025 incident but sustained multiple gunshot wounds to both arms and her leg. The lawsuit, filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, alleges excessive and unconstitutional use of deadly force.
“I truly believed I was going to be killed,” Allen said. “I kept telling them I was scared, I kept asking for help, and instead I was shot over and over again. No one should ever experience that.”
Incident Details
According to the lawsuit, the confrontation escalated after Allen requested a supervisor during the traffic stop. When her requests were denied, she called 911, expressing fear for her safety. The situation intensified when Officer Melvin called for backup, and Allen was pepper-sprayed.
Allen attempted to drive to the nearest police station seeking help. Video footage obtained by Local 4 News shows two police vehicles boxing in her truck before Officer Melvin allegedly fired six shots.
Police Department Response
Detroit’s police chief initially supported the officer’s actions but later reversed course after reviewing body camera footage, stating that Officer Melvin had violated several department policies. The officer has since been suspended without pay.
Legal Action and Accountability
Attorney Maurice Davis, representing Allen, emphasized that the lawsuit addresses both individual and systemic issues.
“This case is not about being anti-police, it’s about accountability,” Davis said. “Police officers are sworn to protect life—not terrorize innocent citizens. This level of violence against a non-threatening civilian is unacceptable, unlawful, and it has to stop.”
The lawsuit alleges that the City of Detroit maintained a pattern and practice of unconstitutional policing and seeks damages for physical injuries, emotional distress, loss of income, and medical expenses.
Ongoing Investigation
The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office has not decided on filing criminal charges against Officer Melvin. Allen’s attorney has submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request for the body camera footage, which the Detroit Police Department has not yet released.
The City of Detroit has declined to comment on the pending litigation.
Local 4 reached out to DPD for the employment status of Officer Melvin but did not hear back.
“I would be lying if I told you I’m OK. Mentally I’m not. Physically I’m not,” Allen said, pointing to permanent scars on her arms and legs from the shooting.