Family Sues City Over Fatal Police Shooting, Calls for Systemic Change

The family of Derek Jordan, fatally shot by police five months ago, has filed a lawsuit against the city and the officer involved. They claim Officer Max Walzer used excessive force in the shooting. Jordan, 42, was killed in March after a police pursuit in Humboldt Park.

The lawsuit, filed in Cook County circuit court, charges the city and Walzer with wanton and willful conduct. Antonio Romanucci, from Romanucci & Blandin, announced the filing, emphasizing their pursuit of justice and the need for systemic change.

Incident details state that on March 9, police conducted an investigatory stop on a vehicle linked to an earlier shooting. The driver, attempting to escape, collided with a pedestrian, a CTA bus, and a squad car. An officer fired shots as they tried to arrest the driver and a gun was later found.

The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) is investigating; details remain undisclosed. Walzer, initially relieved of his powers, now serves in the 11th District. He became an officer in February 2022 and has faced four misconduct complaints.

Jordan had past drug convictions. Attorneys for his estate seek a criminal inquiry and a jury trial. Christine Thompkins, Jordan’s mother and the lawsuit’s plaintiff, expressed grief and determination for justice.

“He didn’t deserve to die the way he died,”

The complaint argues the officer exhibited intent and failed to de-escalate the situation. COPA released footage from various cameras capturing the confrontation.

Footage shows Jordan’s vehicle blocked by a bus, police approaching, and the confrontation between Walzer and Jordan. Walzer’s body camera recorded him shouting threats before shots were fired.

The family alleges Walzer acted with indifference, citing a broader context of racial discrimination by the police.

The city has not commented on the litigation, waiting for service of the complaint. Christine Thompkins and Jordan’s father, Derek Thompkins, demand accountability and change.