Family Sues City and Officer Over Fatal Police Shooting

The family of Derek Jordan, who was fatally shot by police five months ago, is suing the city and the officer involved, alleging excessive and unreasonable use of deadly force. In March, 42-year-old Jordan was killed following an investigatory stop that evolved into a police chase in Humboldt Park.

The lawsuit, filed in Cook County circuit court by attorneys representing Jordan’s estate, accuses the city and Officer Max Walzer of wanton and willful conduct. Antonio Romanucci, founding partner of Romanucci & Blandin, stated, “We are seeking justice for Derek.” He added that the family aims for systemic change to prevent future incidents.

According to a statement from the Chicago police, officers attempted an investigatory stop on a vehicle connected to a previous shooting. The driver, attempting to flee, hit a pedestrian, a CTA bus, and an unmarked police car. During the ensuing chaos, an officer fired shots, resulting in Jordan’s death. Police claim a gun was recovered from the car.

The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) is investigating the incident. Though the investigation remains active and ongoing, no further details have been provided. Meanwhile, Walzer was relieved of his police duties but has since been reassigned to the Harrison (11th) District.

Public records indicate Walzer began his service as a police officer in February 2022, facing four misconduct complaints in that time, none of which were sustained by COPA. Derek Jordan’s past includes drug convictions and a dismissed domestic assault case.

During a news conference, attorneys for Jordan’s estate demanded a criminal investigation from the Cook County state’s attorney’s office. The suit, presented by Jordan’s mother Christine Thompkins as the plaintiff, seeks a jury trial. Thompkins said, “He didn’t deserve to die the way he died,” expressing her ongoing quest for justice.

The 19-page complaint alleges that Officer Walzer shot Jordan intentionally while making verbal threats. It emphasizes that the situation called for de-escalation rather than escalation. COPA released video footage from the incident, showing the sequence of events leading up to the shooting.

Footage reveals that a white Mercedes driven by Jordan attempted to flee as officers approached, colliding with a bus. As officers tried to apprehend Jordan, one officer with his gun drawn shouted threats, with Walzer later firing multiple shots. The incident took place around 5:41 p.m., and Walzer was seen being escorted into a squad car shortly after the shooting.

The complaint filed by Jordan’s family and legal team claims that Walzer and the city exhibited “utter indifference and conscious disregard” for Jordan’s safety. Accusations include unlawful discharge of his weapon, use of deadly force without imminent threat, and failure to de-escalate the situation.

The lawsuit also highlights the broader context of the Chicago Police Department’s history of discriminatory practices against Black men, stating, “This case cannot be understood in a vacuum.”

A city law department spokesperson noted that the city had not been served with the complaint yet and refrains from commenting on ongoing litigation. Speaking to reporters, Jordan’s parents expressed sorrow and determination to understand the reasons behind their son’s death.