EAST LANSING, Mich. — Michigan State University has reached a $15 million settlement with the families of three students who were killed on Feb. 13 in a campus shooting, according to records obtained through a public records request to the university. The families or estates of the victims will each receive $5 million as part of the settlement.
The settlements were approved by MSU in December, marking the end of extensive negotiations over many months. The university has denied any wrongdoing or liability as part of the settlement agreement. The families of the victims are expected to use the settlement money to honor their children’s legacies and continue their pursuits of justice.
The Board of Trustees at MSU unanimously voted on the agreements with the families on Dec. 15. The university has expressed its deepest condolences to the impacted families and is committed to ensuring that the memory of the victims is not forgotten in the Spartan community.
A press conference held by the attorney for the family of one of the victims confirmed the settlement, stating that the family received $5 million from the university. The attorney emphasized that the family did not seek to blame MSU for the tragedy but instead sought answers on how similar events could be prevented in the future.
It’s worth noting that four out of the five students wounded in the attack have indicated their intent to sue the university, although no settlements have been announced. Additionally, the university has not yet announced plans for a memorial for the victims. Interim president Teresa Woodruff has stated that more information will be released to the public after Jan. 1.
In conclusion, the $15 million settlement between Michigan State University and the families of the victims of the campus shooting marks the conclusion of extensive negotiations and brings some closure, support, and relief to the impacted families. The university has expressed its commitment to honoring the memory of the victims and ensuring that their legacies are not forgotten.