Mohammed Usman Chaudry, 21

Hollywood, California
March 25, 2008

Agencies: Los Angeles Police Department California LAPD

Cause of death: Not Yet Known


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Last updated: almost 6 years ago

Overview

Mohammad Usman Chaudhry, a 21-year-old Pakistani American, was fatally shot at 1435 N. Curson St. in Hollywood at 4 a.m. Tuesday, March 25.

According to police, Officer Joseph Cruz and his partner were patrolling the street when they saw a dark figure by an apartment complex. The officers approached to investigate and encountered Chaudhry lying behind some bushes.

As Cruz was questioning Chaudhry, he pulled out a folding knife and stabbed Cruz on the left hand. Cruz pulled out his gun and fired several rounds at Chaudhry. Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics pronounced Chaudhry dead at the scene at 4:21 a.m.

Cruz was taken to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where he was treated for lacerations and released, authorities said.

Chaudhry was autistic. Officer claimed Chaudhry attacked him with a knife. Federal jury found he lied, used excessive force, and awarded family $1.7 million.

UPDATE: Initially the L.A. County coroner identified Chaudhry as a black man, but family said he was a Pakistani American and a Muslim.

Legal Action

June 2011 $1.7 million awarded to family of man killed by LAPD officer]

Community and Family Efforts

June 2008 Vigil

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