Uvalde, Texas – The Uvalde City Council has recently reached a settlement with the families affected by the tragic mass shooting that occurred at Robb Elementary in 2022. The unanimous decision to approve the settlement comes after a long process of negotiation, almost three years after the devastating incident where 19 children and two teachers lost their lives.
The agreement includes a payment of $2 million to the victims’ families from the city’s insurance coverage. Despite the unimaginable loss, the families chose not to seek a higher payout to prevent financial hardship for their beloved community. In addition to the settlement with the city, the families are pursuing damages from other entities involved in the failed response, such as the Texas state police.
Attorney Josh Koskoff, representing 19 families affected by the tragedy, expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort to reach a resolution that would not burden the community further. Recognizing that healing is a challenging and ongoing process, Koskoff emphasized the importance of the agreement in supporting the families and the city of Uvalde in moving forward.
Mayor Hector Luevano also acknowledged the pain and loss experienced by the community, stating that while no amount of compensation can fully repair the damage, the settlement signifies a crucial step towards healing and honoring the memory of those who were lost. The city is dedicated to providing ongoing support and resources to ensure the well-being of the families and survivors.
As part of the settlement, the city has committed to implementing changes within the local police department, including new standards for officer fitness and improved emergency training. In addition, May 24 will now be recognized as an annual Day of Remembrance, and plans are underway to erect a permanent memorial in honor of the victims.
Despite the settlement with the city, there are still ongoing legal actions by the families against individuals and entities they hold responsible for the delayed police response during the incident. The families are seeking justice and accountability from the authorities and organizations involved, as documented in investigative reports highlighting the shortcomings in handling such crises.
Overall, the settlement represents a significant milestone in the community’s journey towards healing and remembrance following the tragic events of that fateful day. The city of Uvalde remains committed to supporting the families and survivors as they continue to cope with the profound impact of the mass shooting at Robb Elementary.