Family Sues Decatur Over Teen Death During High-Speed Police Chase

The family of 16-year-old Jaiden DeJarnett has filed a federal civil rights and wrongful death lawsuit against the City of Decatur, Mayor Tab Bowling, former Police Chief Todd Pinion, former Officer Mac Marquette, and Lt. Joe Renshaw following a fatal high-speed police chase in 2023. The pursuit, which began over a minor traffic violation of driving without headlights or taillights, lasted over 40 minutes and reached speeds exceeding 135 mph, ultimately ending in a fatal crash when DeJarnett lost control of his vehicle. The lawsuit alleges that the officers violated Decatur Police Department's pursuit policy, which limits such chases to violent felonies, and accuses the city of inadequate training, supervision, and discipline of its officers. Additionally, the family points to a possible pattern of reckless behavior within the department, noting Officer Marquette's involvement in another fatal police shooting currently under trial. The family seeks compensatory and punitive damages, attorney fees, and demands accountability and transparency, particularly regarding the refusal to release body camera and dashcam footage from the incident. No charges were filed in the case after a grand jury decision, intensifying the family's pursuit of justice through litigation.