TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) - The parents of a teenage boy who was fatally shot by a Tempe police officer in January have filed a $5 million notice of claim against the police department and the city.
Tempe has 60 days to respond to the claim, which is a precursor to a lawsuit.
A city spokeswoman declined comment on the matter Tuesday, citing possible pending litigation.
The claim says 14-year-old Antonio Arce was wrongfully shot Jan. 15 while fleeing from the policeman and holding a replica gun.
Police say Officer Joseph Jaen fired twice because he thought the teen’s gun was real and perceived a threat.
Body-worn cameras show Arce didn’t appear to turn around or point a weapon at Jaen, who was responding to a vehicle burglary.
Jaen resigned from the department in May.
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