The family of a 28-year-old man shot and killed by a Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy filed a claim Friday against the county.
One of the family’s attorneys, Ron Kaye, told reporters that he was seeking “justice” on behalf of Oscar Alberto Ramirez, who was shot around 2:30 p.m. Oct. 27 along the railroad tracks behind Paramount High School, and his survivors.
A county spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment, and a sheriff’s spokesman said the department does not discuss pending litigation.
Ramirez, an unemployed laborer, was apparently shot several times, including once in the back of the head, in “broad daylight,” Kaye said.
Deputies have said they were responding to an armed fight at Paramount High School, but the victim’s family contends Ramirez was trying to stop the melee and was shot while attempting to run away.
Kaye said the main reason for filing the claim — which is a precursor to a lawsuit — is to force the release of evidence and witness information.
“Answers will not bring back Oscar Ramirez, but at least it will explain to these grieving people why this unnecessary death occurred,” Kaye said.
Kevin LaHue, another of the family’s lawyers, said Ramirez was wearing shorts and a tank top when he was shot.
“It’s not like he was wearing some bulky jacket and it took place down a dark alley,” LaHue said, adding that the victim had no history of gun violence or weapons possession.
Christian Ramirez said his late brother had “lived life peacefully.”
“He didn’t harm anyone,” he said of his sibling. “He just wanted to life a peaceful life. For that to be taken away from him is not right.”
— City News Service