David P. Goins Sr., 60, of San Lorenzo, California, died on February 17, 2014, after a confrontation with Alameda County Sheriff’s deputies at his home. Earlier that night he had chest pains and paramedics were called; after paramedics left he returned inside and deputies were summoned for assistance. Sheriff’s officials say Goins assaulted deputies and swung a baseball bat, and that deputies then shot him.

Family members filed a federal civil rights lawsuit alleging the deputies knew about David’s neurological deficits — he was recovering from a brain hematoma and had prior contacts for psychological issues and intoxication — and that officers escalated the encounter and used excessive force. The complaint sought unspecified damages from Alameda County and Sheriff Greg Ahern.

The case raises questions about how officers handled a man with documented medical and cognitive problems and about the use of lethal force during the encounter. Did anyone witness David’s behavior inside the home or the moment the bat was swung?