USA News: Tragic Shooting: LA Woman Fatally Shot by Police After Reporting Domestic Violence

On December 4, 2023, Niani Finlayson, a 27-year-old black woman, called 911 to report domestic violence at her Los Angeles home.

When deputies from the LA County Sheriff’s Department arrived, they heard yelling and found Niani holding a knife, threatening her boyfriend. A confrontation ensued, resulting in Niani being fatally shot multiple times in front of her nine-year-old daughter.

The family’s attorney stated Niani had reported injuries from her ex-boyfriend and wanted him removed. Niani’s daughter, who witnessed the shooting, refuted the police claim that her mom was threatening them. The family filed a legal claim against the county and sheriff’s department, alleging wrongful death and civil rights violations.