Seven years ago today, Atatiana Jefferson was killed by a Fort Worth police officer inside her own home.
She was just 28 years old and spending the evening with her nephew, playing video games.
Former officer Aaron Dean was convicted of manslaughter in 2022 and sentenced to 11 years, 10 months and 12 days in prison.
In 2023, Fort Worth approved a separate $3.5 million settlement for her nephew, Zion Carr, who witnessed the shooting. This August 2026, the city approved an $11.25 million settlement with Atatiana’s estate, one of the largest settlements in Fort Worth’s history.
Although a conviction and financial settlements cannot bring Atatiana back or undo the trauma her family has endured, accountability matters, and justice is a necessity, not an option.
Today, we honor her life and stand with her family.
Rest in power, Atatiana Jefferson.