Suit against city, police for fatal shooting set for trial

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) - A civil lawsuit against the Billings Police Department and one of its officers who fatally shot a man is set for a jury trial.

The Billings Gazette reports the trial is set for March 4.

The family of Richard Ramirez, who was shot dead by Billings Police Officer Grant Morrison during a traffic stop in April 2014, filed suit against Morrison, the City of Billings, and Police Chief Rich St. John in 2016, arguing that Ramirez’ rights were violated.

An order filed Jan. 30 shut down certain claims, but allowed the suit against Morrison and the city to move forward.

A claim against Morrison for the use of excessive force that violated the constitutional rights of Ramirez can move forward, but claims under state law against Morrison were halted.

However, the state law claims against the city can move forward.

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Information from: The Billings Gazette, http://www.billingsgazette.com