This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Los Angeles sued for $25 million in TSA officer's LAX shooting
TSA agent Gerardo Hernandez, killed Friday, Nov. 1, 2013 in a shooting at LAX.
(
Courtesy NBC4
)
The wife and family of the TSA officer who was shot and killed at Los Angeles International Airport in November 2013 are suing the city of Los Angeles for $25 million.
The suit alleges that the city "failed to properly hire, supervise, train, staff and plan for the protection and safety of individuals and personnel at the airport," according to a press release from law firm AlderLaw P.C., which is representing the wife and family of TSA officer Gerardo Ismael Hernandez.
"The City of Los Angeles employees failed in carrying out their duties, creating a very dangerous lapse in security which was a factor causing Mr. Hernandez to be fatally shot and killed," AlderLaw's Michael Alder said in the press release. "Even more horrific, is that the City’s employees delayed medical care to Mr. Hernandez. Our hope is that this suit will eliminate situations like this from ever happening again."
Hernandez was allegedly shot and killed by Paul Ciancia, who pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. Prosecutors have yet to announce whether they will seek the death penalty.
This story has been updated.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
