Family of Man Shot by Police Sues for Alleged Excessive Force

The family of Derek Jordan, who was fatally shot by police, has filed a lawsuit against the city and Officer Max Walzer. They allege the officer used excessive and unreasonable deadly force during the incident in March. The lawsuit, brought by attorneys representing Jordan’s estate, was filed in Cook County circuit court.

Details of the Incident

Jordan, aged 42, was killed after an investigatory stop led to a police pursuit in Humboldt Park. According to Chicago police, the incident began when officers attempted to stop a vehicle linked to a previous shooting. The driver tried to escape, hitting a pedestrian, a CTA bus, and an unmarked squad car. During the attempted arrest, an officer fired at the vehicle, and a gun was later found inside.

Legal and Community Reactions

Antonio Romanucci, an attorney at Romanucci & Blandin, spoke at a news conference. He emphasized the family’s pursuit of justice for Jordan and their aim for systemic change in policing. They want to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Following the shooting, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) began an investigation, which remains active. Officer Walzer was temporarily relieved of his police powers but has since returned to active duty in the Harrison (11th) District. Public records show Walzer has faced four misconduct complaints since joining the force in February 2022, none sustained by COPA.

Complaint Details

The lawsuit, filed by Jordan’s mother, Christine Thompkins, as the estate’s special administrator, contends that Walzer displayed intent to use deadly force. It criticizes his failure to de-escalate, noting verbal threats and gunfire prior to the shooting. The attorneys demand a criminal investigation by the Cook County state’s attorney’s office.

Footage from body cameras and a CTA bus shows the chaotic scene. Jordan was driving a Mercedes when it rammed into a bus. Officers approached his car, with Walzer shouting threats before shooting. Recordings capture his frantic breathing after the incident.

The complaint argues that Walzer lacked lawful justification for using his weapon, and the force applied was unnecessary as no imminent threat existed. It also emphasizes the broader context of racially discriminatory policing practices by the Chicago Police Department.

Family’s Demand for Justice

Christine Thompkins expressed grief at a news conference, stating that her son did not deserve his fate. Alongside her, Jordan’s father questioned the police’s role in serving and protecting the community.

City officials have yet to comment on the pending litigation, and a legal representative confirmed that the city has not been formally served with the complaint yet.