Milwaukee, Wisconsin — A civil jury found that a Milwaukee police officer was negligent when he ran over a suspect with his squad car during a high-speed chase in May 2020. The victim, Ravid Smith, pursued legal action against the city and Officer Antonio Obregon, culminating in a verdict that awarded him $57,926 to cover past medical expenses, pain, and suffering.
The incident unfolded after a stolen vehicle, with Smith as a passenger, ignored a stop sign and collided with a semi-truck. The crash ejected Smith, who was then left unconscious in the road. It was during this aftermath that Officer Obregon, driving the squad car, maneuvered over Smith. Obregon testified, claiming he mistook Smith for debris or a pothole, stating he did not see him before the accident occurred.
During the trial, dashcam footage which captured the critical moments was shown, leading Obregon to admit during cross-examination that Smith’s body was visible in the video before being run over. Despite his testimony, the focus also turned towards the extent of injuries Smith suffered, with a medical professional weighing in on the debate.
Dr. Jared Greenberg, who treated Smith, testified that while about 90% of his severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, were attributable to the initial vehicular collision, the remaining injuries, such as broken hip and ankle, occurred when Obregon’s squad car ran over him.
The chase initially began as an attempt to apprehend individuals in a stolen vehicle reportedly involved in reckless driving.
Smith, reflecting on the incident during his testimony, acknowledged a lapse in his memory, recalling, “I don’t think I remember none of it, all I remember is just waking up and I woke up in July.”
The jury’s verdict brings a close to the legal battle, highlighting the risks and responsibilities associated with police chases and the operation of emergency vehicles. It also opens up a dialogue on necessary protocol and training for law enforcement in handling high-speed pursuits, ensuring the safety of all parties involved, including suspects.
The Milwaukee Police Department has not formally responded to the verdict, and it remains to be seen if there will be an appeal or if internal policy reviews will occur as a result of this incident.
The outcome of this case may serve as a precedent, influencing how similar cases are handled in the future, ensuring that law enforcement officers are adequately trained to identify and react competently during high-speed chases.
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