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Family of Montana Man Killed by Police Files Lawsuit

Sean Patrick O'Brien, 37, was shot dead by Livingston police in January 2016

By Associated Press

BILLINGS — The family of Montana man killed by Livingston police in 2016 has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city and the officers involved.

The Billings Gazette reports the suit filed last week on behalf of 37-year-old Sean Patrick O’Brien claims police were negligent, used excessive force and violated department polices.

Officers had responded to a Livingston store following reports of a man threatening employees in January 2016. Authorities say two officers opened fire on O’Brien after he ran at them with a knife.

Livingston Police Chief Dale Johnson declined to comment on the suit Tuesday but noted the two officers are still employed. City attorney Jay Porteen also declined to comment Tuesday.

A jury determined the shooting was justified.