Homicide Ruling in Police Shooting: Family Seeks Justice

A coroner's inquest has officially ruled the death of Mary Alice Love a homicide. The 37-year-old woman was fatally shot multiple times by a Mundelein police officer in early May. This ruling offers a glimmer of hope to Love's family, who are seeking accountability.

Love's family asserts she was experiencing a mental health episode and was not a threat when they contacted 9-1-1 for assistance. They contend the responding officer failed to issue a warning before firing and argue a Taser would have been a more appropriate response than a firearm. The family's spokesperson questioned the officer's de-escalation training.

Authorities stated video footage shows Love holding a large knife and approaching officers before the shooting. However, the family's attorney highlighted that jury members questioned why a Taser was not deployed. The family is urging the Mundelein police department to terminate the officer and the state's attorney's office to file criminal charges against them.

The officer involved has not been charged. The family described Love as a "gentle soul" who was deeply loved. Their attorney noted the homicide finding as a significant step toward achieving peace and resolution for the grieving family. The family also claims body-camera footage was edited and plans to release an unedited version.