The Department of Justice has announced a preliminary agreement regarding the wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of Ashli Babbitt, who was fatally shot during the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. This settlement comes as part of the family’s $30 million lawsuit initiated in 2024.
On Friday, attorneys representing both Babbitt’s estate and the Justice Department communicated to a federal judge in Washington, D.C., that they have reached a consensus on the terms of the settlement. Robert Sticht, the attorney for Babbitt’s family, indicated that a formal agreement is anticipated within three weeks.
Babbitt, an Air Force veteran aged 35, was shot by U.S. Capitol Police Lieutenant Michael Byrd as she attempted to breach a restricted area within the Capitol Building during the unrest. At the time, she and other supporters of former President Donald Trump were trying to access the Speaker’s Lobby, which was being secured as lawmakers were evacuated amid the chaotic scene.
The single shot fired by Byrd struck Babbitt in the shoulder, leading to her being transported to the Washington Hospital Center, where she later died from her injuries. An internal investigation by the U.S. Capitol Police subsequently cleared Byrd of any wrongdoing, concluding that he acted in self-defense and to protect members of Congress.
Babbitt, who hailed from San Diego, had a 14-year military career that included service in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as National Guard deployments to Kuwait and Qatar. Prior to her death, she was known for her strong support of Trump and had shared posts related to the conspiracy theory QAnon on her social media accounts.
In a related development, former President Trump has expressed intentions to explore financial reparations for some individuals involved in the January 6 events, indicating that he may consider compensation for Babbitt’s family as well.
The impending settlement represents a significant moment for Babbitt’s family as they seek closure from the tragic events of that day.
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