Family Of Man Shot By Los Angeles Deputies Files $25M Claim

The family of a Washington man who was mistakenly shot and killed by Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies has filed a $25 million claim against the department.

The Seattle Times reported an attorney for John Winkler’s family announced the claim’s filing on Tuesday, saying the April 7 shooting was “a preventable act.” A claim can be a precursor to a lawsuit if it is rejected.

Authorities say that Winkler and two other men were taken hostage by Alexander McDonald. When deputies arrived, McDonald began stabbing the men. Winkler was shot when he burst out of the apartment in an attempt to flee.

Winkler, who was from Puyallup, Wash., moved to California six months ago to pursue a career in film and television production.