08/12/2026
The City of Fort Worth has reached a proposed $11.25 million settlement with the estate of Atatiana Jefferson, nearly seven years after she was fatally shot by former Fort Worth police officer Aaron Dean inside her home in October 2019.
The settlement would resolve the civil claims related to Jefferson’s death. Her two young nephews are expected to receive the largest portions of the settlement, which would be held in trust until they turn 18. Other family members would receive portions as well.
Dean was convicted of manslaughter and is serving nearly 12 years in prison. The proposed settlement still requires approval from the Fort Worth City Council on August 25 and subsequently by a probate court before it becomes final.
Jefferson’s family said the settlement represents a measure of accountability but emphasized that no amount of money can bring her back or erase their loss. The family also plans to continue honoring her legacy through The Atatiana Project.
Source: CBS News