Michigan State University has reached settlements with the families of three students who were killed in the mass shooting on Feb. 13.
During a Board of Trustees meeting on Friday, the board unanimously voted to approve the agreements with the families of Alexandria Verner, Arielle Anderson and Brian Fraser.
David Femminineo, an attorney for the Verner family, said the settlement is for $5 million.
“This case was never about blaming Michigan State University for the tragic events of 2/13/23. From the outset the discussions with MSU General Counsel Brian Quinn centered around how MSU can support the Verner family moving forward beyond 2/13/23," Femminineo said in a statement. "The Verner family did not seek to blame MSU for the death of their daughter. Instead, the Verner family has sought answers as to how this could be prevented in the future."
Five others were injured when a suspect opened fire on students inside Berkey Hall and the MSU Union. The suspect later killed himself.
"As a family we are still trying to heal. It has been a very difficult 10 months and literally it was only 10 months a few days ago," says Ted Verner, Alexandria's father. "My daughter and my daughters and my son are amazing kids. Nancy and I have been blessed that we've got such a tight-knit community and a wonderful family. Clawson helped us heal."
During the board meeting Friday, MSU Trustee Dan Kelly said, "While no amount of compensation can ever replace the loss of a life, we do hope this brings some closure, support and relief to these impacted families."
