VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Editor's Note: This story has been updated to remove some details of the statement made by the Lynch estate regarding attorney's fees.
The estate of Donovon Lynch is speaking out after a federal judge ordered the payout of attorneys’ fees and costs from a $3-million wrongful death settlement with the city of Virginia Beach.
The settlement was the resolution of a $50 million lawsuit filed after a Virginia Beach police officer shot and killed Lynch during a violent night at the Oceanfront in March 2021.
The conclusion of the case had been in limbo for several months after the settlement was reached because the Lynch estate disputed how their legal representation would be paid, since they changed attorneys several times throughout the lawsuit.
In a statement Friday morning, the Lynch estate expressed frustration regarding the amount billed to the estate for attorney's fees. They also reiterated the estate's position that Donovon didn't pose a threat to law enforcement and wasn't breaking the law at the Oceanfront the night he died.
"As a licensed registered firearm carrier, he had the right to defend himself and his family under the 2nd Amendment of the United States constitution," the statement read.
Donovon was carrying a gun at the time he was shot.
The statement went on to say that the settlement is just one piece of the family's effort to bring justice to Donovon, saying "they remain committed to debunking conflicting accounts and statements surrounding Donovon's death."
"The Lynch family's unwavering commitment to justice is driven by their love for Donovon and their desire to prevent other families from enduring similar pain and heartache," the statement read. "They will continue their relentless pursuit of truth until those responsible are held fully accountable."
