Background on Ashli Babbitt and the Capitol Riot
On January 6, 2021, supporters of then-President Donald Trump stormed the United States Capitol in an attempt to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Among those present was Ashli Babbitt, a 35-year-old woman from San Diego, California. Tragically, Babbitt lost her life during the riot.
The Incident
As the mob attempted to breach the Speaker’s Lobby near the House chamber, Babbitt tried to climb through a broken window. An officer, later identified as Michael Byrd, discharged his firearm, striking Babbitt. The officer’s actions were taken in defense of the House members and staff seeking refuge inside.
Legal Proceedings and Settlement
Following the incident, a lawsuit was filed by the conservative group Judicial Watch, demanding $30 million in compensation for Babbitt’s death. However, the Department of Justice decided to settle the case rather than proceed to trial after Trump won the November 2024 presidential election and initiated discussions for an agreement.
Public Reaction and Trump’s Stance
Trump has repeatedly criticized the shooting, calling it unjustified and referring to Babbitt as an “innocent woman” and a “martyr” among his supporters. Despite the officer being cleared of any wrongdoing, Trump’s stance on the matter has remained firm.
The Settlement
According to The Washington Post, citing two individuals with knowledge of the situation, the US government agreed to pay nearly $5 million to Babbitt’s family. This settlement comes as a resolution before the case goes to trial.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was Ashli Babbitt? Ashli Babbitt was a 35-year-old woman from San Diego, California, who lost her life during the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot.
- What led to her death? Babbitt attempted to climb through a broken window in the Speaker’s Lobby near the House chamber while the mob attempted to breach the area. An officer, Michael Byrd, discharged his firearm, striking Babbitt.
- What legal actions were taken following her death? Judicial Watch filed a lawsuit demanding $30 million in compensation for Babbitt’s death. However, the Department of Justice opted to settle the case before it went to trial.
- What was the amount of the settlement? The US government agreed to pay nearly $5 million to Babbitt’s family.
- How did Donald Trump respond to the incident? Trump criticized the shooting, calling it unjustified and referring to Babbitt as an “innocent woman” and a “martyr.” Despite the officer being cleared of any wrongdoing, Trump maintained his stance on the matter.
