Trayvon Martin’s Parents Settle Wrongful Death Suit, Reportedly Get $1 Million

A little over a year later, Trayvon Martin’s parents have settled a wrongful death claim. Although a specific amount has not been shared, what his family received, is believed to be more than $1 million, against the homeowners association of the Sanford subdivision where Trayvon was killed. The Orlando Sentinel reports that their attorney, Benjamin Crump, would not confirm or deny the rumored amount, simply saying:

“I have no comment on that subject…I know you did not get that from me.”

By now, you know the story about this tragic case, that caused many Americans to take sides.

In brief, on February 26th, Trayvon was shot to death by Neighborhood Watch volunteer George Zimmerman at the Retreat at Twin Lakes townhomes in Sanford. Zimmerman, who head of the Neighborhood Watch, called police that evening, describing Trayvon as suspicious. He has said the teen attacked him and he fired in self-defense.The association’s insurer, Travelers Casualty and Surety Co. of America, filed suit in federal court in August, asking a judge to clarify its liability in the case, but that suit was dropped a few months later. During an interview  earlier this year, Zimmerman’s attorney said Trayvon’s parents had made a wrongful death claim against the homeowners association. They’d tried to settle through mediation, he said, and the association or its insurer had offered $1 million but Trayvon’s parents had rejected that amount. Fast forward to the present day and the settlement reads:

“It is understood and agreed that the payment made herein is not to be construed as an admission of any liability by or on behalf of the releasing parties; but instead the monies being paid hereunder is consideration for avoiding litigation, the uncertainties stemming from litigation as well as to protect and secure the good name and good will of the released parties.”

Under the terms of the settlement, Trayvon’s parents, Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin, and his estate, agreed to set aside their wrongful death claim and claims for pain and suffering, loss of earnings and expenses. What are your thoughts on a the rumored settlement amount?