Family of Toussaint Sims files wrongful death lawsuit

The family of Toussaint Sims, a Mississippi man who was fatally shot while running away from police, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Moss Point Police Department, City of Moss Point, and the officer cleared in the shooting

The federal suit in the death of Toussaint Diamon Sims was filed Thursday in U.S. District Court in Gulfport. It alleges Sims died as a result of excessive force.

Authorities have said Moss Point Officer Lancen Shipman tried to arrest Sims in August 2019, but Sims led police on a chase and displayed a gun.

The lawsuit argues Shipman had inadequate training, didn’t follow protocol, and unnecessarily shot and killed Sims.