Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : Mother of Man Killed by Boise Police Files $5 Million Lawsuit Against City
The mother of 22-year-old Payton Wasson, who was shot and killed by Boise police this summer, has filed a tort claim against the city seeking millions in damages for her son’s death. Marah Wasson, represented by a Chicago-based law firm, alleges that she has suffered mental anguish, emotional distress, and physical manifestations due to the tragic loss of her son. The civil complaint requests at least $5 million in compensation.
The complaint also argues that Marah Wasson is entitled to damages under federal and state law for the costs of her son’s hospitalization prior to his death, as well as funeral expenses and punitive damages. Additionally, the claim seeks compensation for the loss of Payton Wasson’s companionship, comfort, guidance, and advice.
Tragically, Payton Wasson died at Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise on June 25. The Ada County coroner’s report revealed that he was struck by at least one bullet in the head, which could not be surgically removed. Hospital personnel determined that he was exhibiting no brain activity, leading Wasson’s family to make the difficult decision to remove him from life support.
In order to pursue a civil lawsuit against a public agency for alleged violations of state law, Idaho requires that a tort claim be filed. The city now has 90 days to respond to the claim. City spokesperson Maria Weeg declined to comment on the lawsuit, citing the early stages of the legal process.
The Wasson family is still awaiting the release of police body-camera footage to gain a better understanding of what transpired on the fateful day. According to Jennifer McGuffin, a spokesperson for the Wasson family’s law firm, the lack of access to the footage has made filing the tort claim challenging. The firm has emphasized the importance of obtaining the truth about the incident.
The shooting occurred in downtown Boise in the early morning hours of June 24. Police, investigating possible gang-related crimes, approached Wasson and two others. Wasson fled on foot and officers reported seeing a gun in his hand. Officer Chance Feldner, with 8 1/2 years of experience, fired the fatal shots. Mario Garza, one of the individuals associated with Wasson, was arrested and now faces multiple charges.
As the investigation continues, the Boise Police Department has declined to release specific details about the shooting, including the number of shots fired and their impact on Wasson. The department cites the ongoing Critical Incident Task Force investigation as the reason for not disclosing further information.
Garza’s trial is scheduled for February, and the Wasson family anxiously awaits the release of the body-camera footage as they seek justice and closure for the loss of their loved one.