Civil trial begins in Adam Toledo's family lawsuit against Chicago Police Department, former officer

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Adam Toledo's family was at the Daley Center for the start of a civil case, alleging his wrongful death at the hands of a Chicago police officer.

On Monday, attorneys for both sides exchanged documents as jury selection is expected next week, with opening statements set for April 20.

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"We look forward to presenting the facts and evidence to a jury and having a jury decide whether this shooting was justified," said Adeena Weiss Ortiz, an attorney for the Toledo family.

In March 2021, Toledo was killed after a police chase in Little Village. According to police, officers were in the area, responding to a ShotSpotter alert near 23rd and Sawyer.

The Civilian Office of Police Accountability released body camera video from the deadly shooting.

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The video shows officers running after Toledo and another person. CPD Officer Eric Stillman reported seeing a gun in Toledo's hand. Stillman yells at Toledo to stop, and when he catches up with the teen, he fires a single shot. Toledo died at the scene.

Attorneys for the family argue Stillman's actions violated the Chicago Police Department's use-of-force policy. Stillman was not charged for the shooting but is considered inactive with CPD.

The Toledo family is suing the city and Stillman. A jury will decide whether the Chicago Police Department is liable in Toledo's death.

On Monday morning, Toledo's mother wiped away tears as she stood by her attorney and clergy.

"We need to have justice for this family," Rabbi Michael Ben Yosef said. "Five years this mother had to go through empty tables and holidays, birthdays and not be able to see her 13-year-old son grow up."

Toledo's family declined to comment but joined on a chant with supporters as they left court on Monday.

After each side requested a change of judge, it was determined that Presiding Judge of the Law Division Thomas Lyons II will preside over this trial.