Settlement Reached in Missouri Police Pursuit Wrongful-death Lawsuit
By Jim Greene
Published on May 31, 2010
The parents of a Missouri teenager struck and killed by a hit-and-run suspect fleeing police reached a $275,000 out-of-court settlement with the city of Independence and a private emergency response provider.
Christopher Cooper, 17, was killed while riding a bicycle in November 2007, when he was struck by a car driven by Wilfredo Pujols, Jr., who was fleeing the scene of a collision with another vehicle.
Lawsuit Claimed Police Violated City's Pursuit Guidelines
The wrongful death lawsuit filed by John and Cheryl Cooper accused Independence police of negligence, claiming they did not follow the city's guidelines in their pursuit of Pujols. The suit also accused both police and emergency responders of not properly evaluating Cooper's injuries and of making demeaning remarks at the scene.
Without admitting fault, the city will pay $225,000 and Medevac MidAmerica will pay $50,000. After legal fees of more than $107, 000, the Coopers, who are now divorced, will each receive just under $84,000 and will withdraw claims against the defendants.
Pujols was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder, resisting arrest, and two counts of leaving the scene of an accident. He was not named in the Coopers' lawsuit.
Victim's Mother Plans Campaign for Safer Police Pursuits
Cheryl Cooper announced plans to address the Independence City Council as part of a campaign for safer police pursuits in Independence and throughout Missouri. "Police chases are epidemic in this town," she said.
Christopher Cooper's death was one of three in a 10-day period resulting from Independence police chases. The other two who died were suspects fleeing police.
If you have been injured or have lost a loved one because of negligent behavior by government employees, contact an experienced personal injury attorney. Government agencies have an obligation to ensure that the behavior of workers does not imperil public safety. If that obligation has not been fulfilled, you may be eligible to receive financial compensation to help you with medical bills, loss of income, loss of companionship, and pain and suffering.
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