Minneapolis backs $150,000 settlement for George Floyd witness’s PTSD lawsuit

The Minneapolis city council agreed to a $150,000 settlement for an eyewitness who tried to stop George Floyd’s murder by the police nearly four years ago. Donald Williams, a 35-year-old mixed martial arts fighter who testified against Derek Chauvin, sued the city, claiming he suffered post-traumatic stress disorder after being assaulted by the police while trying to prevent Floyd’s death on May 25, 2020. The council approved the settlement without discussion, as reported by the Star Tribune.

The lawsuit alleged that Chauvin used chemical spray and ignored pleas to check Floyd’s pulse, ultimately failing to provide medical aid. Williams described Chauvin’s actions as similar to a “blood choke” used in MMA, noting Floyd’s struggles to breathe. He called 911 to report what he believed was a murder, leading to fear for his safety, pain, suffering, and medical expenses.

Donald Williams, a key eyewitness in George Floyd’s case, played a crucial role in the trial against Derek Chauvin. Williams, a skilled mixed martial arts fighter, bravely intervened during the tragic incident in 2020. His testimony shed light on Chauvin’s actions and the events leading to Floyd’s death.

Williams’ courage and determination to seek justice not only for Floyd but also for himself, as he suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder, are commendable. The settlement approved by the Minneapolis city council acknowledges the impact of the traumatic events on Williams and provides some measure of redress for his suffering and expenses.