The family of a teenager killed in a high speed chase with Decatur police is now suing the city of Decatur, city leaders and several police officers for their roles in his death.

The federal lawsuit arises from a high-speed pursuit that resulted in the death of 16-year-old Jaiden Rashad DeJarnett on Sept. 4, 2023. The pursuit began after DeJarnett was spotted driving without headlights and taillights, and ended when DeJarnett lost control of his vehicle and slammed into a tree in Lawrence County.

The lawsuit names several defendants, including former officer Mac Bailey Marquette, Mayor Tab Bowling, former chief Todd Pinion, and Lt. Joe Renshaw.

The lawsuit states officers violated police pursuit protocols during the chase, which reportedly reached speeds of more than 135 miles per hour

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