Family of beloved Stamford reverend fatally struck by police cruiser sues department and city
Jackson was killed in July 2023 when he was hit by Lockwood's vehicle on Wire Mill Road. Jackson had gone to his mailbox across the street from his home and was walking back when Lockwood crashed into him.
More Stories
The family of Rev. Tommie Jackson, who was hit and killed by Stamford police officer Zachary Lockwood's cruiser, filed a lawsuit Wednesday against the police department and the city.
Jackson was killed in July 2023 when he was hit by Lockwood's vehicle on Wire Mill Road. Jackson had gone to his mailbox across the street from his home and was walking back when Lockwood crashed into him.
At the time, Lockwood was heading to a car accident on Hope Street and had his emergency lights on. The lawsuit claims that while on the way to that scene, Lockwood was driving faster than the speed limit listed for the Long Ridge Road area and was briefly on the phone.
It also states that Lockwood saw Jackson, who was in the middle of the road and was walking across the street, and yet he did "not firmly engage the brakes expecting that Tommie Jackson will retreat."
MORE: Vigil to be held tonight to honor beloved pastor struck and killed by Stamford police cruiser
The suit claims Lockwood panicked after the crash, exited the vehicle and asked Jackson's wife what street he was on. When Lockwood radio 911 dispatch, he informed his fellow officer that he hit someone but gave the incorrect number on Wire Mill Road.
In August 2024, Lockwood was fired from the department.
Lockwood rejected a plea offer in April that would have had him serve two years in prison. A trial date has not been announced.
