Kiwane Carrington

Unarmed 15-year-old Kiwane Carrington was killed by a Champaign, Illinois officer during a confrontation outside a home where he was allowed to stay in October 2009.

What happened

On October 9, 2009, fifteen-year-old Kiwane Carrington and friend Jeshaun Manning-Carter were outside a Champaign house where Kiwane had permission to stay. A neighbor reported a possible burglary. Police Chief R.T. Finney and Officer Daniel Norbits arrived and confronted the boys. During a struggle, Norbits' gun discharged, fatally striking Carrington. The police investigation deemed the discharge accidental, but the boy's family, witnesses and local organizers challenged police tactics and fought for outside oversight. His killing became a turning point in the local campaign for civilian accountability and meaningful oversight of the Champaign Police Department.

Investigation & findings

The state investigation characterized the discharge as accidental and federal prosecutors declined a criminal civil-rights case. Norbits was disciplined for mishandling his firearm. Champaign settled with Carrington's family for $470,000. An allegation that the police chief fired the shot was raised in separate litigation but was denied by city officials.

What happened

Investigation & findings

Sources & records