Police, borough sued

as he ran.

“The overwhelming facts and unequivocal law supporting this lawsuit are so clear and self-evident that it could have been filed within days of Antwon’s death,” Mr. Rabner said.

“However, the family deserved to lay their son, brother and grandson to rest in a peaceful fashion. And while this suit will never quell their tremendous grief or minimize their tragic loss, we feel that it is time that we begin to seek some answers, and take appropriate court action to assure justice.”

In addition to wrongful death and excessive force, the suit accuses Officer Rosfeld of assault and battery.

It also alleges that borough officials “knew or should have known” about Officer Rosfeld’s “pattern of escalating encounters with the public” and history of problems at other departments. The suit also accuses the borough of failing to train officers known to use excessive force or to supervise them properly.

The suit is asking for unspecified damages for wrongful death as well as punitive damages and other costs.

East Pittsburgh officials did not respond to a request for comment.

The next step is for the defendants to file a response. The case will then proceed to pleadings, requests for documents and eventually depositions as it heads to trial.

Mr. Rabner said Antwon’s parents are hoping the suit will bring about changes in police conduct in the community and across the nation.

“Their motivations in this suit are strictly for justice,” he said.