Mother of Slain Teen Sues L.A. and Officer

The mother of 13-year-old Devin Brown, who was fatally shot by police after a car chase in February, filed a lawsuit Tuesday against the city of Los Angeles and the officer involved.

The suit, brought by Evelyn Davis, names Los Angeles Police Officer Steven Garcia in the Feb. 6 slaying of her son.

It alleges wrongful death and negligent hiring, training and supervision of Garcia, who allegedly fired 10 shots at the scene.

“We believe the child died as a result of the improper conduct and poor training of this officer,” said Davis’ attorney Brian Dunn.

After the fatal shooting, the Los Angeles Police Commission restricted officers from shooting at moving vehicles unless they feel their lives or those of bystanders are at risk.

On Feb. 6, officers pursued a maroon Toyota Camry, driven by Devin, after the car ran a red light in South Los Angeles about 4 a.m., police said.

Officers said Devin later backed the car into their patrol car.

Garcia then fired at the car, killing Devin, according to police, who later learned that the car was stolen.

The complaint asks for a jury to hear the case and for an unspecified amount of money in general and punitive damages.