Adam Toledo Family Files Federal Lawsuit Against City and Officer Over 2021 Shooting
The complaint combines excessive‑force claims with negligent‑hiring allegations that the family says could widen discovery and hold the city liable.
Overview
- The family refiled the case in federal court on May 28, 2026, after dropping a Cook County wrongful‑death suit a month earlier so they could present all claims together.
- The federal complaint accuses Officer Eric Stillman of excessive force, saying body‑camera video shows he fired 838 milliseconds after Toledo dropped a gun and when Toledo’s hands appeared raised and empty.
- The suit also alleges the city negligently hired and retained Stillman despite known health problems, including PTSD and hand tremors, which the family says made him unfit for duty.
- Formal discipline has stalled: COPA recommended firing in 2022 but CPD leadership sought a light suspension, and the case is on hold while the Illinois Supreme Court resolves whether arbitration can replace Police Board hearings.
- No criminal charges were filed in 2022, and the family says the federal case is now the main path to accountability and broader evidence through discovery, with potential impacts on hiring and foot‑pursuit policies.