AUSTIN, Texas – Lawsuit Emerges After Police Shooting Incident

AUSTIN, Texas – Lawsuit Emerges After Police Shooting Incident

In a significant legal development, a man who was shot by an Austin police officer back in April 2024 is suing the officer for excessive force. The lawsuit comes after a tense encounter that has raised questions about police conduct and the concept of de-escalation.

The Incident

The events unfolded on April 6, 2024, during the early hours around 2 a.m. when a 911 call reported a heated argument between two men at the Cliffs at Barton Creek Apartments located on Tamarron Boulevard near Mopac. Responding to the call, two police officers arrived at the scene. Upon hearing yelling from the apartment, they announced their presence.

Officer Gabriel Walker Prado reportedly spotted Avelino Medel II through the patio door. In a split-second decision, the officer yelled that Medel had a gun and subsequently opened fire. The incident was captured on body camera footage released by the Austin Police Department.

Aftermath of the Shooting

Medel was injured and immediately taken to a hospital, where he was treated and released the following day. According to his attorney, Jeff Edwards, Medel is suffering from internal injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of the incident.

In a statement about the lawsuit, Edwards emphasized that Medel was legally entitled to carry a firearm and insisted that the gun was not pointed at anyone threateningly; it was raised in the air as he communicated with his father during the argument.

Claims of Excessive Force

The lawsuit takes aim not only at Officer Walker Prado but also at the City of Austin itself. Edwards argues that the Austin Police Department has a troubling history of excessive force and a failure to properly de-escalate situations. He believes the shooting incident is indicative of larger issues within the police force.

“The problem is nobody has bothered to hold officers accountable,” Edwards stated, reflecting a sentiment shared by many who advocate for police reform.

Pursuing Justice

Medel and his attorney are seeking compensation for various damages, including pain, medical costs, and loss of wages. Edwards stressed that the goal of the lawsuit is not necessarily to have Officer Prado fired but rather to provide police training focused on better judgment in future encounters.

“The officer should have announced himself and issued a warning,” said Edwards. “A simple instruction like, ‘Sir, I’m outside. You need to put the gun down; it’s the police,’ could have changed the situation dramatically.”

The City’s Response

The City of Austin has publicly acknowledged the lawsuit, stating, “We are aware of the lawsuit. To maintain the integrity of the ongoing investigative process, the City will respond through the appropriate court channels.”

Community Reflects

This case has sparked discussions within the Austin community about police practices, accountability, and the need for reform. Many are hopeful that it will lead to better training for officers and ultimately reduce the likelihood of excessive force in the future.

The lawsuit highlights the fine line that police officers must walk when assessing threats in high-stress situations. As this case progresses, it may serve as a critical learning opportunity not only for the officers involved but for the entire police department and the community it serves.

As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen how the City will address these pressing issues and whether meaningful changes will come in light of this troubling incident.