Family of Kentucky man, shot and killed by police, files lawsuit
LONDON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – The family of Doug Harless, who was fatally shot by London police on December 23, 2024, has filed a civil lawsuit seeking justice for his death. Attorneys Nicholas Horne and Ashley Abaray of Thomas Law Offices are representing the family.
According to previous reports, officers were executing a search warrant at 511 Vanzant Road when they fatally shot 63-year-old Harless. Dispatch audio indicated that the warrant was intended for 489 Vanzant Road, a residence that had been vacant for months. Authorities claimed that Harless pointed a firearm at officers before he was shot.
In a statement sent to ABC 36 News, Harless’s daughter, Nicki Lawson, expressed the family’s grief:
“This was a completely preventable tragedy and has left my family heartbroken. My dad, Doug, was one of the hardest-working people I knew, always putting his family and friends first. He loved watching NASCAR, listening to music, and cracking jokes that made everyone laugh. We miss him every single day.
No family should have to endure this kind of loss and we want to hold the police accountable for their reckless error. As we grieve, we ask for privacy to mourn and remember Doug.”
The incident has led to increased scrutiny of the London Police Department, with community members seeking transparency and accountability. In response, local law enforcement agencies, including the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office, have announced plans to equip deputies with body cameras to enhance accountability.
The Kentucky State Police are conducting an ongoing investigation into the shooting.
