PHOENIX — The family of a Phoenix man shot and killed by police earlier this year is suing the city and the officer involved, claiming excessive force was used during the fatal encounter.

According to the lawsuit filed late last week, the family of 45-year-old Christopher Phillips is seeking $5 million in damages, including $1 million for each of his three children. The suit names Officer William Rodriguez Gallardo and the City of Phoenix as defendants.

The shooting happened on January 17 near 35th Avenue and Baseline Road in southwest Phoenix. Police were responding to reports of trespassers at an abandoned home when they encountered Phillips, who fled on foot.

Officers chased him through several blocks before the pursuit ended in the entryway of a gated community. Phillips was found

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