Michele Robey was 55 and from Chicago when she died on February 10, 2017, after being shot by a Chicago police officer. The Cook County Medical Examiner ruled the death a homicide from a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Robey had a documented history of mental illness, including bipolar disorder, and had reportedly stopped taking medication for financial reasons.

On the day of the shooting she was accused of threatening CVS employees and patrons while brandishing a knife, knocking items off shelves and using derogatory language. Officers found her at a nearby bus stop still holding the knife. After a Taser was deployed without effect, Robey allegedly lunged at officers and Officer Stephen Romanski shot her. She was taken to hospital and pronounced dead.

An Independent Police Review Authority/COPA investigation reviewed witness statements, surveillance video, police reports and medical records and was submitted to the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, which did not file criminal charges. Robey’s family, especially her mother, questioned the use of force, and her sister later filed a lawsuit alleging excessive force.