EspañolSettlement Following a Fatal Sheriff’s Department Shooting During a Mental Health Crisis
Carrillo Law Firm, working with the Law Offices of Dale K. Galipo, obtained a $2.25 million settlement in litigation arising from the fatal shooting of Marco Antonio Vazquez, Jr. by Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies. His family called for help on October 6, 2019, because he was experiencing a mental health crisis, including hallucinations and suicidal thoughts.
Deputies and mental health clinicians initially responded but left without taking Vazquez for involuntary psychiatric evaluation. When his crisis continued, his daughter called 911 again. Deputies returned and shot him after he produced a knife. His family alleged that he was startled by the deputies’ arrival, had not made an aggressive movement toward them, and was shot without adequate warning or an attempt to de-escalate.
The case focused on the response to a known mental health emergency and the decision to use lethal force. The settlement resolved claims brought by family members following the loss of a son, father, and brother.
