Overview
In one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history, 19 children and two teachers were killed on May 24, 2022, at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.
Settlement Details
The city of Uvalde has reached a $2 million settlement with families of the victims of the 2022 mass shooting. The agreement was announced by lawyer Josh Koskoff ahead of the second anniversary of the tragedy.
- The settlement involves the families of 17 children who lost their lives and two survivors.
- Families agreed not to sue the city as part of the settlement.
- However, they plan to pursue legal action against the state of Texas and the federal government regarding the law enforcement response to the shooting.
Law Enforcement Response
A U.S. Justice Department review revealed that local police failed to confront the gunman promptly, waiting outside for over an hour despite pleas for help from the children.
- State and federal officers, comprising the majority of the 376 law enforcement personnel present, took 77 minutes before engaging and neutralizing the 18-year-old shooter.
Legal Actions
Families of the victims filed a lawsuit against local and state police, the city, and other officials seeking over $27 billion in damages and class-action status for survivors due to delays in confronting the attacker.
- Two lawsuits have been filed against Daniel Defense, the manufacturer of the rifle used in the shooting.
- Families are advocating for criminal charges against officers involved in the delayed response.
Current Investigation
Uvalde District Attorney Christina Mitchell has initiated a criminal investigation into the incident, with a grand jury convened in January to examine the events surrounding the tragedy.