A college lacrosse player was shot five times and tased by police who mistook him for his knife-wielding brother during a hostage situation, a lawsuit filed against the Albany Police Department alleges.
Maverick Lyon, 21, who played lacrosse at St. Anselm's College, was allegedly held at knifepoint by his brother, Dakota Lyon, on January 6. Maverick then fled his family's North Albany, Oregon, home, seeking help from authorities, according to the Oregonian.
Dramatic video captures the moment police opened fire on Maverick, who is heard moaning, “You guys got the wrong guy — he was holding me hostage,” as he lay bleeding on the ground. Officers then placed him in handcuffs.
David Lyon, the father of both Maverick and Dakota, told KOIN, “I called the police that day because I wanted to protect Maverick, and instead, the very people I called for help ended up nearly taking his life.”
The lawsuit accuses the Albany Police Department of negligence and excessive force. Maverick Lyon was shot in the chest, back, and face. His lawyer stated that he was hospitalized for four weeks and underwent multiple surgeries.
Maverick reportedly missed his spring college semester and his senior lacrosse season due to the injuries, though he is now able to play again. His attorney emphasized the “devastating consequences when law enforcement fails to distinguish someone asking for help from someone posing a threat.”
Dakota Lyon had recently been released from prison and pleaded guilty to attempted kidnapping, unlawful use of a weapon, and coercion in connection with the incident.
