Family of man, 95, killed by beanbag gun files suit

PARK FOREST, Ill. (WLS) -- The family of a 95-year-old has filed a wrongful death lawsuit. John Wrana's family says excessive force was used, and he was not a threat to anyone.

Sharon Mangerson says Park Forest police should have known that her 95-year-old stepfather would have been seriously injured by beanbag rounds fired at close range during a standoff at Wrana's assisted-living facility last year. Mangerson says she wants accountability for what happened and has filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against Park Forest and six officers.

"He did not deserve to be treated in that respect, and certainly none of our elderly people ever do," Mangerson said.

In July of last year, police said they were called to Victory Centre of Park Forest assisted living facility after Wrana refused medication, turned violent and threatened paramedics with a knife. After police responded with a Taser and riot shield, Officer Craig Taylor fired six beanbags at the World War II veteran, who suffered internal bleeding and died hours later.

A criminal charge of reckless conduct was filed against Taylor in April. The attorney for Wrana's family says he did not pose a serious threat to anyone.

"There was no immediate, lawful reason to implement police action against Mr. Wrana, including use of police tactical intervention," said Nicholas Grapsas, Wrana family attorney.

But Jim Sotos, who represents the officers and the village of Park Forest says this is not a case of excessive force, that the officers, who were forced with Wrana holding a knife, had reason to be concerned for their safety.

"The level of force that he chose was exactly appropriate for the circumstances. In fact, he was using the beanbag round because he was trying to subdue him without causing him serious injury or death," Sotos said.

Wrana's family is suing for $5 million. They are demanding a jury trial.