The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to hear the case involving the 2016 police shooting of a Benton teenager, effectively closing the family’s final legal avenue.
Family’s Lawsuit Reaches Its End
The case centered on the death of Keagan Schweikle, a 17-year-old who was shot by Kyle Ellison in Benton nearly a decade ago.
Keagan Schweikle’s parents had pursued legal action against the police department and the city, arguing that excessive force was used during the incident.
What Happened in 2016
According to court records, Schweikle’s mother called 911 on October 17, 2016, reporting that her son was suicidal and had gone into a wooded area with a firearm.
Officers responded near the Saline River, where they encountered Schweikle holding a gun. Police said Officer Ellison ordered him to drop the weapon and fired when the teen moved it away from his head.
Jury Ruling and Legal Complications
During a 2024 trial:
- A jury found that Ellison did not violate constitutional rights or use excessive force
- However, the jury ruled the officer had been poorly trained, holding the city and police leadership responsible
- The jury initially awarded $32 million to the family
That award was later overturned by higher courts, which ruled that liability could not be assigned to the department without first finding the officer at fault.
Appeals Exhausted
After losing in lower courts, the family petitioned the Supreme Court to review the case. The court’s decision not to take it up leaves prior rulings in place.
Legal experts note that such refusals do not necessarily reflect agreement or disagreement with the case, but rather the court’s limited docket.
Family and City Respond
Schweikle’s father criticized the outcome, saying it allows law enforcement agencies to avoid accountability.
Meanwhile, attorneys representing the city stated they respect the legal process and hope all involved can move forward after years of litigation.
Final Outcome
With the Supreme Court declining to hear the case, the legal battle stemming from the 2016 shooting has officially come to an end, closing a long and complex chapter for both the family and the city.