Family files tort claim after man dies at Federal Way hospital in police custody
Aug 19, 2026, 10:23 AM
(Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
(Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
The family of a man who died in police custody is filing a $50 million tort claim against the city of Federal Way.
Leon Davis died at Saint Francis Hospital back in March. The King County Medical Examiner says he died from a heart attack, but they’re investigating it as a homicide.
The medical examiner found that his heart attack was brought on by being restrained face down for about 25 minutes while experiencing alcohol withdrawal syndrome. He also reportedly had blunt force injuries to his neck, head, face, and wrists.
In the tort claim, the family attorney is calling for a criminal investigation into potential manslaughter charges. They said Federal Way police used unnecessary and unreasonable force.
The family’s attorney also said they’re renewing calls for the immediate release of body-camera video of the incident, saying it would give them — and the public — clarity on what happened.
