Record Verdict Stands in Antonio Mays Jr. Case

A King County Superior Court judge has upheld the $30.5 million jury verdict against the City of Seattle in the death of Antonio Mays Jr. Judge Sean P. O’Donnell denied all post-trial motions filed by the city on Friday, leaving the historic verdict intact.

Background of the Case

Antonio Mays Jr., 16, was fatally shot on June 29, 2020, within the Capitol Hill Organized Protest (CHOP) zone. The CHOP zone was established after police and emergency services withdrew from the area during protests following the death of George Floyd.

Family's Argument and Jury Deliberation

Attorneys representing the Mays family argued that Antonio’s injuries were treatable, but the city’s delayed emergency response contributed to his death. The jury deliberated for 12 days before reaching the $30.5 million verdict on January 29, 2026, marking the largest verdict in Seattle’s history.

City's Challenges Rejected

The City of Seattle challenged the verdict on grounds of causation, damages, and alleged juror misconduct. However, Judge O’Donnell rejected all of these arguments, affirming the jury’s decision.

Statements from Legal Representatives and Family

“This ruling confirms what 12 jurors already told the City of Seattle,” stated attorneys with Oshan Law, representing the Mays family. “Judge O’Donnell considered every argument the city raised and found none sufficient. The verdict stands.”

Antonio Mays Jr.’s father released a statement saying, “My son came to this city and this city turned its back on him. Today, the court confirmed what the jury already said — his life mattered.”